Whether you're a tourist looking for a quick winter escape or a backpacker planning your next adventure, these five cities will let you experience the beauty and culture of Europe on a budget.

1. Budapest, Hungary: Affordable Charm with Winter Magic

Budapest transforms into a winter wonderland as soon as the temperature drops, with its festive lights and Christmas markets. What makes it even better? It’s one of the most affordable capitals in Europe.

Budapest is a city full of history and culture, and the best part is, it’s really cheap to explore it! Here’s my top 3 recommendations for your winter gateway:

• Fisherman’s Bastion
  Enjoy panoramic views of the Danube River and the city’s iconic Parliament building. The lower levels are free to visit, while the upper terraces have a small fee.

• St. Stephen’s Basilica
  Visit one of Budapest’s top attractions, the entry to this stunning church is free, but a small donation (~€1) is suggested to visit the treasury or climb the dome for a beautiful city view.

• City Park
  Wander through Budapest’s largest public park, a free-to-visit area with beautiful winter scenery and historic monuments, home to the Vajdahunyad Castle and Heroes' Square, both of which can be explored without charge.

For a truly local experience, make sure to visit the Széchenyi Thermal Baths, one of the largest and most iconic thermal spas in Europe. While it’s not free, the baths are well worth the reasonable entry fee, offering you a chance to soak in naturally heated waters during the cold winter months. And after a relaxing dip, grab some delicious lángos, a classic Hungarian street food. These deep-fried doughs, usually topped with sour cream and cheese, are both budget-friendly and a real treat!

To make the most of your stay, consider getting a Budapest Card, which offers free public transport, discounted entry to many attractions, and even access to some museums and baths. Plus, it’s always a good idea to join a free walking tours, giving you an insightful and cost-effective way to explore the city’s history and culture.

2. Krakow, Poland: A History Lover’s Budget Dream

Krakow offers a beautiful mix of history and culture at a fraction of the cost of other major European cities. With its well-preserved medieval core and fascinating World War II history, this is a must-see for winter travelers on a budget.

Visit these top 3 places to uncover the history of the polish capital:

• Wawel Castle Grounds
  Explore the beautiful Wawel Castle in Krakow offering great views of the Vistula River,. While some interior areas of the castle require a ticket, the grounds and gardens can be explored for free.

• Old Town
  Walk through Krakow’s Old Town, the city’s historic core with its medieval charm and stunning architecture. Discover its medieval streets stopping at the Main Square to see St. Mary’s Basilica.

• Kazimierz District
  Discover the Kazimierz District in Krakow as this historic Jewish quarter offers a cultural journey through synagogues, street art, and charming cafés.

The Old Town and Wawel Castle are both UNESCO World Heritage sites, but a visit to Krakow would be incomplete without stopping at the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial. While entrance is free, a guided tour is highly recommended to fully grasp the historical significance of this site.

In your days of exploration, warm up with a plate of pierogi, Poland’s beloved dumplings. These hearty, budget-friendly treats come with various fillings, from savory meats to sweet fruits, offering a comforting and authentic taste of Polish cuisine.

To make your trip even more affordable, keep an eye out for discount passes, which often include free or reduced-price entry to museums and public transport. And like many cities in Europe, Krakow offers free walking tours, providing a fantastic way to explore the city's rich history.

3. Prague, Czech Republic: Stunning Architecture at Low Prices

Prague is a fairy-tale city that’s especially beautiful during winter, and it’s surprisingly affordable. Wander its cobblestone streets, visit its iconic bridges, and enjoy stunning architecture

There are Prague’s top 3 affordable attractions for budget-conscious explorers:

• Charles Bridge
  Cross the one of the most iconic landmarks of Prague, Charles Bridge, this beautiful medieval gem and admire the views of Prague’s Old Town and Vltava River.

• Prague Castle Gardens
  Visit the Prague Castle Gardens and courtyards, a scenic area around the castle that’s open to the public for free.

• Old Town Square
  Enjoy a free visit to Prague’s Old Town Square, the heart of the city, home to the iconic Astronomical Clock and surrounded by stunning architecture.

When in Prague, don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Old Town Hall Tower, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the city from the top of its tower. If you plan your visit for the morning, you can take advantage of discounted entry fees on select days. The Early Bird Special tickets run from Tuesday Sunday, meaning that during the first hour after opening, admission is half price. Additionally, a free guided tour of the Town Hall is often available, allowing you to delve into the fascinating history of this iconic landmark.

After soaking in the sights, treat yourself to some traditional Czech food; I highly recommend trying Trdelník, a sweet pastry rolled in cinnamon sugar, and a serving of goulash, a flavorful meat stew that’s both filling and budget-friendly.

To maximize your experience in Prague, take advantage of the numerous free walking tours.

4. Porto, Portugal: Escape the Cold with Budget Sunshine

If you’re not a fan of freezing temperatures but still want a winter break, head to Porto. While the weather is mild, Porto still offers that cozy winter atmosphere with affordable prices year-round.

Porto offers so much beauty at little to no cost, so here’s my top 3 must-see attractions:

• Ribeira District
  Explore the Ribeira District in Porto on foot, this historic waterfront district is full of colorful houses and the Douro River offer picture-perfect views for free.

• Dom Luís I Bridge
  Walk across this iconic double-decker bridge, the Dom Luís I Bridge for breathtaking views of Porto and the Vila Nova de Gaia.

• São Bento Railway Station
  Visit this beautifully train station, renowned for its beautiful azulejos (ceramic tile art).

No trip to Porto is complete without a visit to the stunning Livraria Lello, often regarded as one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world. With its intricate wooden staircase and colorful stained glass, it’s a must-see for any book lover.

Just a short walk away is the main square, where you can admire the magnificent Porto Cathedral and soak up the vibrant atmosphere of this historic city. Don’t forget to sample the region’s famous Port wine; while tastings can vary in price, you can often find budget-friendly options at local wine cellars, making it easy to indulge without breaking the bank.

To enhance your visit, always look for free walking tours, which provide an excellent opportunity to discover the city’s rich history and hidden gems.

5. Athens, Greece: Ancient History with Off-Season Prices

Athens may not immediately spring to mind as a winter destination, but visiting this ancient city in the off-season means fewer crowds and much lower prices. It’s the perfect spot for history lovers who don’t want to spend a fortune, here’s 3 low cost attractions in the Greek capital:

• Plaka District
  Wander through the picturesque streets of Plaka, the old town of Athens, where you can find hidden cafés, shops, and street art without spending a euro.

• Acropolis Museum
  Visit the Acropolis Museum in Athens for a low-cost entry during the winter season to learn about ancient Greece. Although entry to the museum is not free, it’s very affordable (~€5 in winter).

• Philopappos Hil
  Hike up Philopappos Hill for one of the best free viewpoints of the Acropolis and and the city of Athens.

If you're in Athens during the winter, keep an eye out for local music events and festivals, which often feature live performances showcasing traditional Greek music, adding a lively soundtrack to your travels. Also, be sure to savor some delicious souvlaki or moussaka, classic Greek dishes that won’t strain your budget.

For even more value, consider purchasing a multi-attraction pass (such as Athens Pass or Acropolis + 6 archaeological sites) which offers discounted access to several historic sites, and don't miss out on free walking tours in this city too!

If you’re a travelling on a budget, Europe in winter offers plenty of opportunities to explore stunning cities without overspending. Whether you’re looking for history, architecture, or just a warm escape, these five destinations offer something for everyone without the high price tag.

Buon viaggio!