A trip to Europe doesn’t have to break the bank — so as long as you know where to go. Fortunately, the continent is home to majestic locales that offer wallet-friendly flights and lodging options.
To determine the most affordable places to visit in Europe right now, we tapped the pros at Priceline to pull data on the cheapest European destinations to fly to between August and October. What’s more, says Christina Bennett, Priceline’s consumer travel expert, “European travel is a late summer staple and has grown in popularity during the shoulder season for its mild, pleasant weather. Despite this, “exploring Europe on a budget is entirely feasible if you plan accordingly.”
With that in mind, we also consulted T+L A-List advisor Jay Ternavan of JayWay Travel to share some savvy money-saving tips.
As you scroll through the list below, you’ll notice all destinations offer an average round-trip airfare of less than $900. Unsurprisingly, a handful of cities featured also offer some of the most affordable average nightly hotel rates in Europe. And while some of these cities have ritzy reputations, free attractions run the gamut from lush parks and world-class museums to captivating festivals.
Keep reading for the complete list, and happy travels.
Copenhagen, Denmark
Maria Ligaya/Travel + Leisure
Average round-trip airfare: $688.32
The Danish capital lures in thousands of tourists with its eclectic architecture — it was even named a UNESCO World Capital of Architecture in 2023 — buzzy food scene (don’t miss the Copenhagen Cooking & Food Festival, which takes place in August), and fascinating history. Not only is the late summer/early fall one of the most affordable times to visit, but it’s also “much easier to secure a reservation at world-renowned restaurants like Geranium and Alchemist, known for their notoriously long waiting lists,” says Olivia Liveng, travel expert and Copenhagen resident. And while the city has a reputation for pricey fine dining, free attractions also abound, including the National Museum of Denmark, the Little Mermaid statue, and the changing of the guard at Amalienborg Palace. A trip to the Tivoli Gardens (tickets from $23) is also a must, as is a visit to Bakken, the world’s oldest amusement park (where admission is free). In terms of getting around, both Ternavan and Bennett advise renting a bike to explore the city, which is both an inexpensive and convenient mode of transportation. Last but not least, it’s worth noting that, per Priceline, Copenhagen offers the fifth-lowest hotel prices in Europe between August and October, with average nightly rates clocking in at $215.
Dublin, Ireland
Tessa Desjardins/Travel + Leisure
Average round-trip airfare: $756.08
“Dublin’s festivals, such as the Dublin Fringe Festival [which takes place in September], offer rich cultural experiences from August to October,” says Bennett. Additionally, the destination’s mild weather is “great for exploring parks and historic sites,” including St Stephen’s Green, Phoenix Park, and the National Botanic Gardens, as well as Dublin Castle and St Patrick’s Cathedral. Indoor attractions also abound, including the Guinness Storehouse (cheers!) and Trinity College, where you can catch a glimpse of the world-famous Book of Kells. According to Ternavan, budget-conscious travelers should “use the Leap Visitor Card for unlimited travel on public transport,” sign up for a free walking tour, and visit no-cost attractions like the National Museum of Ireland. When hunger calls, refuel at one of the city’s many traditional pubs, which offer affordable meals plus — in many cases — live music. Pro tip: “Look for lunch specials outside tourist areas,” says Ternavan. Also, when selecting hotels, there are plenty of options to choose from that won’t break the bank, especially when you consider that Dublin ranks among the top 15 European destinations with the cheapest hotel prices from August to October 2024, with an average nightly rate of $273, according to data from Priceline.
Nice, France
Christopher Larson/Travel + Leisure
Average round-trip airfare: $779.49
Each summer, thousands of tourists flock to tony Nice in search of fun in the sun. However, savvy travelers opt to visit in the early fall months (the destination’s shoulder season) to snag lower airfare and lodging rates coupled with minimal crowds. Sure, the city is best known for its beaches, but it also boasts a charming Old Town, as well as some of France’s best museums, including the Marc Chagall National Museum, which is sure to wow art enthusiasts of all ages. Also, while Nice is home to a burgeoning culinary scene, the eateries can be pricey. Instead, says Ternavan, “Skip restaurant lunches and visit the Cours Saleya Market for local food, available daily except Monday until 1:00 p.m.” For the best city views, make a beeline for the free Castle Hill, a former military citadel turned park; just be sure to wear comfortable shoes. Finally, visitors may also consider a day trip to buzzy Cannes, accessible via a 40-minute train ride that costs less than 9 euros per person each way.
London, England
Gautier Houba/Travel + Leisure
Average round-trip airfare: $790.35
From its royal palaces and historic landmarks (looking at you, Big Ben) to adorable neighborhoods and world-class museums, there’s lots to love about London. Bennett recommends visiting in the late summer and early fall “for memorable events like the Notting Hill Carnival in late August and the London Film Festival in October.” Enjoy the mild autumn weather and lush foliage by retreating to Hyde Park and Kew Gardens, and be sure to take advantage of other free attractions such as the changing of the guards at Buckingham Palace, The British Museum, and The National Gallery. Skip a fancy lunch in favor of a visit to Borough Market to sample an array of eclectic eats for a lower price. A Visitor Oyster Card can help you save on transportation costs, while a London Pass is especially great since you can skip the lines, book attractions online, and snag discounts. Theater enthusiasts, meanwhile, can visit the TKTS booth for cheap, last-minute tickets to a West End show.
Paris, France
Ambika Verma/Travel + Leisure
Average round-trip airfare: $797.55
Come July, millions of travelers from across the globe will flock to Paris to watch the 2024 Summer Olympics (July 26 to Aug.11); however, come mid-August, the crowds will clear out, and hotel prices will significantly drop. The savings continue into the early fall months, which coincide with the city’s shoulder season, and the beautiful foliage is just the icing on the cake. Paris Pass provides access to over 75 attractions and sightseeing tours. While we’d argue the city is best explored on foot — choose from a handful of free walking tours to enhance your experience — public transportation is readily available and inexpensive, and travel passes are also available. While a trip to Paris most certainly includes stops at top-notch eateries, you can save a few bucks by ordering a “carafe d’eau (tap water bottle) in Parisian restaurants to avoid the cost of bottled water,” says Ternavan. Similarly, he advises travelers “carry a refillable bottle for public drinking fountains around the city’s parks.” Lastly, the travel advisor notes that free admission is available to several museums, including Musée d’Art Moderne de la Ville de Paris, Maison de Balzac, Musée Carnavalet, Petit Palais, Maison de Victor Hugo, and Musée de la Vie Romantique.
Reykjavik, Iceland
Irjaliina Paavonpera/Travel + Leisure
Average round-trip airfare: $812.18
Reyjavik, which recently made our list of the most affordable solo travel destinations, also happens to be one of the cheapest places to visit in Europe this year. During this time, travelers can try their luck at spotting the northern lights while partaking in outdoor adventures and activities — scenic hiking opportunities abound, including Mount Esja, Glymur Waterfall, and Kerid Crater, all of which are within an hour from the city. When it comes to exploring the city proper, Ternavan recommends “getting a Reykjavik City Card for free bus travel and entry to many attractions,” including the National Museum of Iceland, Reykjavík Zoo and Family Park, and a slew of thermal pools for restorative soaks. Pre- or post-sightseeing, treat yourself to a pastry at one of the city’s many bakeries, including buzzy BakaBaka and the 1834-era Bernhoftsbakari. Additionally, the eclectic city made Priceline’s list of the top 15 most affordable places to visit in Europe based on hotel prices, with an average nightly rate of $273.
Lisbon, Portugal
Gautier Houba/Travel + Leisure
Average round-trip airfare: $868.94
Rich history, colorful architecture, and vibrant nightlife: Find all this and more in Portugal’s capital city, which dates back to 1200 B.C. Additionally, says Bennett, “Lisbon’s warm weather from August to October is perfect for exploring its historic districts and outdoor events.” Alternatively, she adds, “spend a sunny day exploring the beaches of the Iberian Peninsula, only 30 minutes from the city center,” because, yes, you can still enjoy the beach outside of peak season — and the fewer crowds are an excellent added bonus. Plus, a trip here doesn’t need to break the bank: “Use trams, buses, and metro, and buy a Lisboa Card for unlimited travel and free entry to many museums,” says Ternavan. He also recommends carving out some time to explore the beautiful Alfama neighborhood, where you can watch free live Fado performances. When it comes time to rest your head, breathe easy: Priceline listed Lisbon as the eighth-cheapest place in Europe based on hotel prices, with the average nightly rate being $240.
Barcelona, Spain
Daniel Gioia/Travel + Leisure
Average round-trip airfare: $872.05
Per Bennett, this beautiful beachfront city is brimming with festivals between August and October, with La Mercè (Sept. 20-24, 2024) being the most notable. During this time, travelers can also soak up the sun at the beach or one of the city’s many parks, including, of course, the world-renowned Park Güell, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Both Bennett and Ternavan recommend buying a T10 ticket for discounted travel on public transportation. Also, says Ternavan, “Skip the touristy La Boqueria and visit local markets like Santa Catarina instead for fresh and affordable food.” Bonus: With an average nightly room rate of $261, Barcelona also made Priceline’s list of the most affordable destinations in Europe based on hotel prices from August to October 2024.
Manchester, England
Atlantide Phototravel/Travel + Leisure
Average round-trip airfare: $873.04
Manchester stands out among England’s most dynamic cities, and traveling here is “often a more affordable way to experience English culture,” says Bennett. “Furthermore,” she adds, “events like the Manchester Pride Festival in late August and the Manchester Food and Drink Festival in September showcase the city’s diversity, uniqueness, and accessibility.” The destination also offers a slew of free attractions to choose from, including museums (don’t miss the Science and Industry Museum, which is home to the world’s oldest surviving passenger railway station), the Central Library, and the Manchester Town Hall, known for its elaborate Victorian Gothic Revival-style architecture. Those craving reprieve from the city’s hustle and bustle can head to Runway Visitor Park, which sits adjacent to the airport so you can watch the planes take off, or Whitworth Park, which spans 18 tranquil acres on the University of Manchester campus. The free hop-on, hop-off bus service makes getting around the city easy and hassle-free. Also, take advantage of free walking tours, such as this one, offered daily at 11 a.m.
Zurich, Switzerland
Stephanie Pollak/Travel + Leisure
Average round-trip airfare: $891.88
While Zurich — and Switzerland as a whole — is known for being pricey, visiting in late summer and early fall is a great way to save. Additionally, says Bennett, “Zurich hosts various cultural festivals and open-air events from August to October,” including Zürcher Theater Spektakel (Aug. 15-Sept. 1,2024), Zürich Openair (Aug. 23-31, 2024), and Zurich Design Weeks (Sept. 12-29, 2024). Meanwhile, “The crisp weather is great for exploring lakes and parks,” including the eponymously named Lake Zurich and Greifensee, along with the tranquil Belvoir Park and the small but spectacular Chinagarten, where you’ll find a small palace plus a pond. Ternavan also recommends travelers take advantage of the city’s “efficient public transport system with day passes for unlimited travel.” He continues, telling Travel + Leisure, “Keep your sightseeing costs reasonable by opting for a small group walking tour over [a] private [option].” Based on data from Priceline, Zurich clocks in at number seven on the top 10 most affordable European destinations to visit based on hotel prices, with an average rate of $237 per night.
