In 2024, savvy travellers are always on the lookout for budget-friendly destinations, and Europe is packed with fantastic options. But where to start? The Post Office Travel Money's annual City Costs Barometer report has revealed exactly where your euro will go further, with a list of the 10 cheapest European cities to visit this year. And if luxury is more your style (or you just want to know where to avoid), the most expensive holiday spots in Europe are included too.
Read on to discover the best spots for your next European adventure that won't break the bank...
Slovakia's charming capital offers a peaceful weekend escape that transforms into a lively hub after dark. Its 18th-century, pedestrian-only Old Town is a gem by day, but come nightfall, the city’s famed clubbing scene springs to life. With beers as cheap as £3 ($4) per bottle and glasses of wine at just £4 ($5), you’re in for a memorable night out. The next morning, unwind with a leisurely stroll along the picturesque Danube River, soaking in the tranquil beauty of the surroundings. Whether you're exploring historic streets or dancing the night away, Bratislava promises a blend of relaxation and excitement.
Budapest is a perennial favourite on holiday bucket lists, and rightfully so – its vibrant city centre exudes an infectious energy. Whether you're captivated by its stunning architecture or exploring cultural treasures like the Hungarian National Gallery, where admission costs around £12 ($15), Budapest offers endless delights. Don't miss the opportunity to unwind in one of the city's numerous hot springs, a beloved tradition across Budapest, ensuring relaxation and rejuvenation during your stay.
Love this? Follow our Facebook page for more travel inspiration
Situated between Estonia and Lithuania, Latvia serves as an ideal pitstop for exploring Eastern Europe, particularly its captivating capital, Riga. The city's distinctive 19th-century wooden architecture adds a unique charm to its landscape, while the Old Town transforms into a mesmerising spectacle at night, bathed in warm beams of light. Riga offers affordable attractions, museums, and galleries, with tickets priced at under £8 ($10) each, making it a budget-friendly destination to immerse yourself in Baltic culture and history.
Krakow, a city that feels straight out of a medieval fairy tale, is a hub of timeless charm and deep historical roots. Visitors can delve into Krakow's cultural scene without fear of overspending – according to the Post Office report, tickets to the city's top museum, art gallery and heritage site, are all under £8 ($10). And don't miss exploring the UNESCO-listed Old Town, a remarkably preserved medieval centre boasting Europe's largest market square, Rynek Glowny, lined with picturesque cafes and historic buildings.
Near the border of Belgium, Lille blends French and Flemish influences seamlessly. Serving as an ideal gateway to northern France, Lille offers a taste of Franco-opulence without the hefty price tag, thanks to a 30% fall in accommodation prices since 2023. A 48-hour travel pass in Lille costs as little as £7.50 ($9.60), providing affordable access to the city's attractions. Many of its top tourist sites offer free admission, while renting a bike allows visitors to experience the cobbled medieval streets on wheels.
Despite its growing popularity fuelled by its vibrant atmosphere and lively nightlife, Lisbon remains affordable for visitors. Coffee-lovers can get their caffeine fix for just £1 ($1.20), while enjoying a glass of wine in the evening will set you back less than £2 ($2.60). For a quintessential Lisbon experience, set aside £3 ($4) to ride its iconic trams weaving through the city centre. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the historic Sao Jorge Castle, offering panoramic views of the city and the Tagus River, providing a glimpse into Lisbon's rich history and stunning vistas.
Ranked as the cheapest European city to visit in 2024, Vilnius offers affordability and cultural richness. Explore its cobbled streets with a budget-friendly coffee in hand (from just £1.80/$2.30) and immerse yourself in its medieval charm. Vilnius showcases stunning Baroque architecture, free-to-enter castles and cathedrals and a UNESCO-listed historic centre, but has a lot to offer beyond architecture too, with a thriving arts scene, diverse culinary offerings and a lively cultural calendar. According to the Post Office report, a two-night stay for two people in 3-star accommodation costs just £131 ($167), making it an accessible destination for budget-conscious travellers.
Now onto the most expensive European cities to visit, and it's no surprise that Vienna – the opulent and romantic capital of Austria – makes the list. A weekend trip for two in the birthplace of Mozart and Beethoven will set you back £550 ($705), with a simple coffee costing around £5 ($6). However, Vienna's rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant cultural scene make it a destination well worth visiting, despite the higher prices.
Surrounded by mountains and water, Oslo is a city of the future, boasting innovative architecture, efficient transport and world-class museums. Oslo's museums are among the best globally, with highlights including the Norwegian Museum of Cultural History and the Holmenkollen Ski Museum, though tickets average around £15 ($19) each. After a day of exploring, be prepared to spend nearly £150 ($192) on a three-course meal for two. Despite the costs, Oslo's blend of natural beauty and modern sophistication makes it a popular tourist destination.
A two-night stay for two people in 3-star accommodation will set you back £319 ($407) in Copenhagen – a price many will argue is worth it for a chance to see the stunning canals and architecture. A glass of wine may cost over £9 ($11), but it is possible to save in other areas, namely by exploring the city's free attractions, such as the famous Little Mermaid statue, inspired by Hans Christian Andersen.
A visit to one of Dublin's many ivy-covered pubs can come with a hefty price tag – a beer or a glass of wine will set you back around £6 ($8) apiece, while a three-course meal for two averages at £83 ($106). Then there's accommodation. According to the Post Office report, a two-night stay for two in a 3-star hotel will leave you around £424 ($540) poorer. Despite the costs, Dublin has much to offer, and the city's blend of historic charm and contemporary vibrancy ensures an unforgettable visit. Explore iconic sights like Trinity College and the Book of Kells, stroll through the picturesque St. Stephen's Green, and soak in the lively music scene in the Temple Bar district.
Known for its unique Art Nouveau architecture, Helsinki seamlessly blends historic charm with modern innovation, and is a vibrant hub of culture and design, home to numerous museums, galleries and theatres. A two-night break will set you back at least £587 ($753) but comes with the chance to visit the iconic Temppeliaukio Church, carved directly into solid rock, or the striking Helsinki Cathedral overlooking Senate Square. Warm up with a traditional Finnish sauna experience, an integral part of local culture, and indulge in hearty Finnish cuisine at cosy, candle-lit restaurants – if you have £117 ($150) for a three-course meal, that is.
Home to literary history, theatrical excellence and atmospheric streets filled with the distant hum of bagpipes, Edinburgh is the third most expensive city on the Post Office City Costs Barometer list, and that's before prices skyrocket during the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. Dining out for a three-course meal for two can cost upwards of £98 ($125), while visiting heritage attractions like Edinburgh Castle often requires paying £20 ($25) or more to explore.
Famously known as the birthplace of the RMS Titanic, Belfast is a popular tourist destination for exploring the secrets of the famous liner. This historical significance contributes to higher prices, with a weekend stay costing upwards of £439 ($560). Despite the expense, visitors can still enjoy the warm Northern Irish charm of the local community. Fortunately, prices for food and drink remain relatively low, allowing travellers to allocate more of their budget towards accommodation.
Amsterdam claims the title of the most expensive European city to visit in 2024, according to the Post Office report. The allure of Amsterdam's winding canals and iconic cityscape draws thousands of tourists daily. However, exploring this popular city comes with significant costs, including £20 ($25) for museum and gallery admissions, £24 ($31) for bus tours and accommodation prices starting at £462 ($589) for a two-night stay for two. Despite the expenses, Amsterdam's unique charm, renowned museums and the opportunity to enjoy traditional Dutch cuisine in cosy canal-side cafes, make it well worth a visit.