As summer approaches, the urge for a European holiday is real. Cobblestone streets, golden beaches, boutique cafés, and charming alleys call out to travellers. Europe’s culture, history, and beauty make it a place you carry in your heart long after the trip.

But let’s be honest: a European holiday often feels expensive. Flights, luxury stays, and meals in Euros can quickly turn wanderlust into wishful thinking.

The good news? You don’t need to splurge to explore Europe. Beyond the popular destinations like Switzerland, Norway, or France, there are underrated, budget-friendly European countries that are equally stunning, soulful, and rich in experiences, without breaking the bank.

In this guide, I’ll take you on a journey through the most budget-friendly European destinations that promise all the magic without a scratch on your wallet.

1. Albania

The Hidden Gem of the Balkans

Tucked between Greece and Montenegro, Albania is one of Europe’s best-kept secrets. With its sun-kissed Riviera, rugged mountains, ancient ruins, charming Ottoman-era towns, and crystal-clear beaches, Albania offers a magical blend of history, nature, and culture, minus the crowds and sky-high costs. Despite being in Europe, it remains incredibly affordable, making it a top choice for Indian travellers seeking a unique, budget-friendly escape.

Start your journey in Tirana, the quirky capital, where colourful buildings, lively cafés, and street art welcome you with open arms. Then venture to Berat – the "City of a Thousand Windows" – a UNESCO-listed town with white Ottoman houses stacked up the hillside. And don’t miss the Albanian Riviera, with beaches like Ksamil and Himarë that rival those of Greece but with fewer tourists and way more charm.

Expense:

• Flights: INR 35,000 – 40,000 (round trip from India via Istanbul or Dubai)

• Accommodation: INR 1,200 – 2,800 per night (budget hotels, Airbnbs, hostels)

• Food: INR 500 – 1,000 per day (local tavernas, bakeries, and street eats)

• Internal transfer and sightseeing: INR 1,000 – 2,000 (buses, shared taxis, entry tickets)

• Ideal Trip Duration: 7 days to explore the coast, mountains, and heritage towns

Best Time to Visit:

May–June and September–October for pleasant weather and fewer tourists. Summers are vibrant but can get hot and crowded in coastal areas.

Best Food to Eat in Albania:

• Byrek – Flaky savoury pastry filled with cheese, spinach, or meat

• Tavë Kosi – A traditional baked dish of lamb and rice in a yogurt sauce

• Fërgesë – A hearty blend of peppers, tomatoes, and cottage cheese

• Grilled Seafood – Especially in the Riviera, where it’s fresh and flavourful

• Petulla – Albanian fried dough, often served with honey or cheese

Visa Requirement for Indians:

Indians can enter Albania visa-free for up to 90 days if they hold a valid multi-entry visa (or residency) for the US, UK, or Schengen Area, valid at the time of entry. Otherwise, a visa must be applied for through the Albanian consulate.

Note: Albania is not a Schengen country. It's located in Europe, but it's not part of the Schengen area.

2. Slovakia

Castles, Caves, and Fairytale Vibes in Central Europe

For years, I’ve been dreaming of visiting this country, and it’s on top of my Europe travel bucket list! Slovakia is one of Europe's most underrated gems, often overshadowed by its popular neighbours like Austria and Czechia. Slovakia offers a storybook setting without burning a hole in your pocket, a land of medieval castles, dramatic mountains, Gothic towns, and UNESCO-listed caves. For Indian travellers looking to explore Europe on a budget, this Central European beauty is a delightful surprise.

Your journey can begin in Bratislava, the capital city nestled along the Danube River. Think cobbled streets, pastel buildings, lively markets, and a stunning hilltop castle. From there, you can wander through mountain villages, hike in the High Tatras, or explore ancient ruins and ice caves that feel straight out of a fantasy novel.

Expense:

• Flights: INR 35,000 – 40,000 (round trip from India via Vienna, Budapest, or Prague)

• Visa: INR 3450

• Accommodation: INR 1,500 – 3,000 per night (budget hotels, guesthouses, or hostels)

• Food: INR 600 – 1,200 per day (local Slovak eateries, bakeries, and mid-range spots)

• Internal transfer and sightseeing: INR 800 – 1,800 (public transport, trains, entry tickets)

• Ideal Trip Duration: 6–7 days to explore city life, castles, and mountain trails

Best Time to Visit:

May–June and September are ideal for pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Winter (December–February) is magical if you enjoy snow sports and Christmas markets.

Best Food to Eat in Slovakia:

• Bryndzové Halušky – Potato dumplings with sheep cheese and crispy bacon

• Kapustnica – A hearty cabbage soup, especially popular in colder months

• Guláš – A rich stew made with meat, paprika, and spices, served with bread

• Lokše – Thin potato pancakes, often filled with sweet or savoury stuffings

• Slovak Honey Wine (Medovina) – A traditional drink made from fermented honey

Visa Requirement for Indians:

Slovakia is part of the Schengen Zone, so Indian citizens need a Schengen visa to enter. You can apply for your Slovakia visa with Atlys for a hassle-free experience!

3. Serbia

Where History Meets Heart in the Balkans

If you're looking for a European escape that blends rich history, buzzing city life, soulful landscapes, and warm hospitality, all on a shoestring budget, then Serbia is the place you must visit. A landlocked country in the heart of the Balkans, Serbia is a delightful mix of Ottoman, Austro-Hungarian, and socialist-era influences, with an energy that feels both nostalgic and fresh.

Begin your journey in Belgrade, the capital city that never sleeps. Perched at the confluence of the Sava and Danube rivers, it’s a place where ancient fortresses overlook floating clubs and cobblestone alleys lead to bohemian quarters full of hidden cafés. Beyond the capital, you'll find storybook towns like Novi Sad, lush national parks, and even Roman ruins waiting to be explored.

Expense:

• Flights: INR 35,000 – 48,000 (round trip from India via Istanbul, Doha, or Dubai)

• Accommodation: INR 1,200 – 2,500 per night (budget hotels, hostels, or local apartments)

• Food: INR 500 – 900 per day (traditional bakeries, kafanas, and local restaurants)

• Internal transfer and sightseeing: INR 800 – 1,500 (buses, taxis, museum entries)

• Ideal Trip Duration: 6–7 days to explore city life, culture, and countryside

Best Time to Visit:

April to June and September–October offer mild weather and a lively vibe without the summer rush. Winter is also beautiful, especially in the mountainous regions.

Best Food to Eat in Serbia:

• Ćevapi – Grilled minced meat sausages served with flatbread and onions

• Pljeskavica – Serbia’s version of a juicy burger, often stuffed with cheese

• Sarma – Cabbage rolls stuffed with meat and rice

• Burek – Flaky pastry filled with meat, cheese, or spinach – perfect for breakfast

• Rakija – Serbia’s famous fruit brandy, best enjoyed with locals over long conversations

Visa Requirement for Indians:

Indian citizens don’t need a visa to visit Serbia for stays of up to 30 days within a year, as long as you’re not entering from Kosovo. All you need is a valid passport and a return ticket.

You can also check out the detailed list of non-Schengen European countries, if you're planning a trip.

4. Georgia

A Land of Timeless Mountains, Tbilisi Charm and Toasts to Life

Tucked between Europe and Asia, Georgia is where snow-capped mountains meet ancient churches, wine flows like water, and every corner feels like a story waiting to unfold. This underrated gem of the Caucasus is perfect for Indian travellers craving a unique, affordable European escape without the crowds or the cost.

If you're wondering what to do in Georgia, make sure to start your journey in Tbilisi, the charismatic capital with colourful balconies, cobblestone lanes, street art, and sulphur bathhouses. Then, head to the Caucasus Mountains for postcard-perfect landscapes, explore centuries-old monasteries clinging to cliffs, and sip wine in the world’s oldest wine-producing region.

Expense:

• Flights: INR 30,000 – 35,000 (round trip from India via Dubai, Doha, or Istanbul)

  [Indigo has started direct flights to Tbilisi from New Delhi, and you can actually travel to Georgia in just 3 hours!]

• Accommodation: INR 1,200 – 2,500 per night (guesthouses, boutique stays, hostels)

• Food: INR 400 – 900 per day (local bakeries, traditional restaurants, street eats)

• Internal transfer and sightseeing: INR 800 – 1,800 (marshrutkas, taxis, and entry fees)

• Ideal Trip Duration: 6–8 days to soak in the culture, cuisine, and landscapes

Best Time to Visit:

May-June and September–October are ideal for pleasant weather, while winter (Dec–Feb) is perfect for snow and skiing in the mountains.

Best Food to Eat in Georgia:

• Khinkali – Juicy dumplings filled with spiced meat or cheese

• Khachapuri – A boat-shaped bread filled with cheese, eggs, and butter (pure indulgence!)

• Lobio – Hearty bean stew served in clay pots

• Churchkhela – A traditional sweet made from grape must and nuts

• Georgian Wine – Made in qvevri (clay pots), the wines are earthy, natural, and unforgettable

Visa Requirement for Indians:

Indian passport holders do not need a visa for Georgia if they have a valid multi-entry visa (or residency) for the US, UK, EU/Schengen, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, or the UAE.

If you don’t have one, you can apply for an e-visa online through Atlys - it's a simple and smooth process.

5. Montenegro

Europe’s Best-Kept Secret of Sapphire Seas and Mountain Dreams

Cradled between rugged mountains and the Adriatic Sea, Montenegro feels like a place straight out of a dream, and yet, it remains blissfully under the radar. With its charming medieval towns, breathtaking coastal views, serene lakes, and dramatic national parks, Montenegro is perfect for Indian travellers craving European charm on a budget.

Start in Kotor, a UNESCO-listed town nestled in a fjord-like bay, with stone walls, hidden stairways, and cafés that seem frozen in time. Then head to Budva for golden beaches and a buzzing vibe, or escape to the mountains of Durmitor National Park for alpine lakes, canyons, and peace.

Expense:

• Flights: INR 35,000 – 40,000 (round trip from India via Istanbul, Doha, or Belgrade)

• Accommodation: INR 1,200 – 2,800 per night (budget guesthouses, hostels, or Airbnbs)

• Food: INR 500 – 1,000 per day (local eateries, bakeries, seafood shacks)

• Internal transfer and sightseeing: INR 1,000 – 1,800 (buses, taxis, park entry fees)

• Ideal Trip Duration: 6–8 days to explore coastlines, old towns, and the wild outdoors

Best Time to Visit:

May–June and September offer pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and better prices. July and August are lively but more expensive. Winter is great for mountain escapes.

Best Food to Eat in Montenegro:

• Ćevapi – Grilled minced meat sausages, often with bread and onions

• Njeguški Pršut – Dry-cured ham from the mountains, full of flavour

• Black Risotto (Crni Rižot) – Made with cuttlefish and ink, especially near the coast

• Burek – A popular savoury pastry filled with meat, cheese, or spinach

• Rakija – A strong fruit brandy, often homemade and shared with stories

Visa Requirement for Indians:

Indian passport holders do not need a visa to enter Montenegro for up to 30 days if they hold a valid Schengen visa or a valid visa/residency for the US, UK, or Ireland.

Without one of these, a Montenegro visa must be obtained in advance, usually via their embassy or consulate. Alternatively, you can also apply for the Montenegro visa through Atlys.

6. Hungary

Thermal Baths, Ruin Bars, and the Danube Dream

Hungary has a buzz. It's a place where history whispers from grand castles, steam rises from centuries-old bathhouses, and creativity flows through quirky ruin pubs and riverside cafés. Perfect for Indian travellers craving a taste of classic Europe with a bohemian twist, Hungary is surprisingly affordable and endlessly charming.

At its heart lies Budapest, one of Europe’s most beautiful capitals, split by the Danube into Buda and Pest. Budapest is a sensory treat, from its Gothic Parliament building and steamy thermal spas to buzzing markets and hidden courtyards. But venture beyond, and you'll find rolling wine regions, sleepy baroque towns, and peaceful lakes that tell stories of old-world charm.

Expense:

• Flights: INR 35,000 – 45,000 (round trip from India via Istanbul, Doha, or Dubai)

• Visa: INR 2750 (apply for your Hungary visa through Atlys)

• Accommodation: INR 1,500 – 3,000 per night (budget hotels, hostels, or Airbnbs)

• Food: INR 600 – 1,200 per day (local eateries, bakeries, and Hungarian bistros)

• Internal transfer and sightseeing: INR 800 – 1,800 (metro/trams, train passes, entry fees)

• Ideal Trip Duration: 6–8 days for a balanced mix of city life, culture, and nature

Best Time to Visit:

Spring (April–June) and early autumn (September–October) offer mild weather and fewer tourists. Winter (November–February) is cold but magical—especially around Christmas markets.

Best Food to Eat in Hungary:

• Gulyás (Goulash) – A comforting meat and paprika stew, often served with bread

• Lángos – Deep-fried dough topped with sour cream and cheese—perfect street food

• Paprikás Csirke – Chicken stew in a creamy paprika sauce served with dumplings

• Dobos Torte – A layered sponge cake with chocolate buttercream and caramel

• Tokaji Wine – Hungary’s golden dessert wine, dubbed “the wine of kings”

Visa Requirement for Indians:

Hungary is part of the Schengen Area, so Indian citizens need a Schengen visa to visit Hungary.

7. Poland

A Land of Resilience, Romance, and Timeless Beauty

Poland is a country that surprises you at every turn. It’s where fairy-tale towns stand beside reminders of a turbulent past, where cobblestone alleys echo with Chopin’s melodies, and where hearty food warms the coldest days. For Indian travellers, Poland offers all the richness of Europe, with stunning architecture, vibrant cities, moving history, and untouched nature.

Begin your journey in Kraków, a city that wears its medieval charm with quiet grace. With a fairytale castle, a lively Old Town, and a haunting World War II history nearby, it’s a place that stays with you long after you’ve left. Then there’s Warsaw, the resilient capital with a modern pulse, and the storybook streets of Wrocław, dotted with tiny gnome statues. Whether you’re tracing history or just watching the sunset over the Vistula River, Poland always feels profound.

Expense:

• Flights: INR 38,000 – 45,000 (round trip from India via Istanbul, Doha, or Frankfurt)

• Visa: Approx. INR 2700

• Accommodation: INR 1,500 – 3,200 per night (hostels, Airbnbs, boutique hotels)

• Food: INR 600 – 1,200 per day (local milk bars, bakeries, traditional restaurants)

• Internal transfer and sightseeing: INR 900 – 1,800 (trams, intercity trains, entry fees)

• Ideal Trip Duration: 7–9 days to explore the highlights and hidden gems

Best Time to Visit:

Late spring (May–June) and early autumn (September–October) offer perfect weather and fewer tourists. Winter (December–February) is magical too, with Christmas markets, snowy towns, and hearty Polish comfort food.

Best Food to Eat in Poland:

• Pierogi – Dumplings filled with potato, cheese, mushrooms, or meat—comfort food at its best

• Zapiekanka – A long baguette-style street snack topped with cheese, mushrooms, and ketchup

• Bigos – A rich stew made with sauerkraut, meats, and spices

• Placki Ziemniaczane – Crispy potato pancakes served with sour cream or mushroom sauce

• Sernik – Polish-style baked cheesecake

• Kompot – A sweet fruit drink served warm or cold

Visa Requirement for Indians:

Poland is part of the Schengen Area, so Indian passport holders must apply for a Schengen visa. You can easily apply for a Polish visa through Atlys.

8. Estonia

Fairytale Forests, Digital Wonders & Baltic Calm

Tucked away in Northern Europe, this Baltic gem remains one of Europe's most underrated yet enchanting destinations. For Indian travellers, Estonia offers something magical, with cobbled lanes, ancient castles, and serene natural beauty — all on a budget that won’t leave your wallet aching.

The capital city, Tallinn, is straight out of a fantasy novel. Think: stone towers, candlelit taverns, pastel-hued houses, and the scent of cinnamon wafting from cosy cafés. From the lush national parks of Lahemaa to the artistic town of Tartu and the Baltic beaches of Parnu, travelling to Estonia is like a soulful escape.

Expense:

• Flights: INR 35,000 – 45,000 (round trip from India via Helsinki, Istanbul, or Frankfurt)

• Accommodation: INR 1,400 – 3,000 per night (Airbnbs, boutique hostels, budget hotels)

• Food: INR 600 – 1,100 per day (local taverns, bakeries, and food halls)

• Internal transfer and sightseeing: INR 800 – 1,500 (buses, day trips, entry fees)

• Ideal Trip Duration: 5–7 days to explore cityscapes and nature escapes

Best Time to Visit:

Late spring (May–June) and summer (July–August) offer the best weather with long daylight hours and cultural festivals. Winter is chilly but magical if you love snow and cosy vibes.

Best Food to Eat in Estonia:

• Kohuke – A sweet curd snack dipped in chocolate — found in almost every Estonian fridge

• Mulgipuder – Mashed potatoes and barley with bacon — a rustic, comforting dish

• Smoked fish – Especially in coastal areas and islands

• Kama – A traditional dessert made of mixed grains, served with yoghurt or kefir

• Rye bread – Hearty, dark, and served with nearly every meal

Visa Requirement for Indians:

Estonia is part of the Schengen Area, so Indian travellers will need to apply for a Schengen visa to visit Talinn and beyond!

9. Czech Republic: Castles, Cobblestones & the Golden Glow of Old Europe

I first thought of travelling to this country when a friend posted her travel stories on Instagram, and I fell in love with it. Honestly, the Czech Republic feels like it was plucked out of a dream, where castles perch on hilltops, rivers weave through centuries-old cities, and every street corner tells a story. For Indian travellers, it’s one of those rare places where fairytale beauty meets real-world affordability.

At the heart of it all is Prague, the “City of a Hundred Spires,” where Gothic cathedrals, baroque bridges, and cobbled alleys invite you to get lost. But venture beyond the capital, and you’ll find even more magic: pastel-hued towns, world-famous spas, medieval squares, and lush countryside dotted with vineyards and forests.

Expense:

• Flights: INR 40,000 – 45,000 (round trip from India via Doha, Istanbul, or Frankfurt)

• Accommodation: INR 1,600 – 3,200 per night (hostels, guesthouses, boutique hotels)

• Food: INR 600 – 1,200 per day (local pubs, bakeries, and hearty traditional meals)

• Internal transfer and sightseeing: INR 800 – 1,500 (trams, buses, entry tickets)

• Ideal Trip Duration: 6–8 days to soak in both city life and small-town charm

Best Time to Visit:

April to June and September to October are ideal for mild weather, fewer crowds, and stunning scenery. The winter months (especially December) are great for Christmas markets and snow-covered towns.

Best Food to Eat in the Czech Republic:

• Svíčková – Marinated beef in a creamy sauce served with dumplings

• Trdelník – A sweet, chimney-shaped pastry grilled and dusted with sugar or nuts (popular with tourists!)

• Guláš – Czech-style goulash, often served with bread dumplings

• Knedlíky – Traditional dumplings that accompany most Czech dishes

• Pilsner beer – Born in the town of Plzeň, Czech beer is world-famous and incredibly affordable

Visa Requirement for Indians:

The Czech Republic is part of the Schengen Area, so Indian travellers will need a Schengen visa. You can also apply for a Czech Republic visa through Atlys.

10. Greece

Sun-Kissed Ruins, Island Dreams and Mythical Escapes

When you think of Greece, you probably picture whitewashed houses overlooking the Aegean Sea, luxury yachts bobbing in turquoise bays, and candlelit dinners by the caldera. Sounds dreamy and expensive, right?

But here’s the truth: Greece doesn’t have to be costly. While Santorini sunsets and Mykonos parties often steal the spotlight (and headlines), there’s another side to Greece — one that’s soulful, authentic, and totally affordable. From the ancient wonders of Athens to lesser-known islands like Naxos or Paros, Greece welcomes you with its warm hospitality, delicious food, and timeless charm, all at surprisingly reasonable prices.

Expense:

• Flights: INR 40,000 – 50,000 (round trip from India via Istanbul, Doha, or Dubai)

• Accommodation: INR 1,800 – 3,800 per night (hostels, budget hotels, Airbnbs — especially outside peak tourist spots)

• Food: INR 700 – 1,300 per day (gyros, souvlaki, bakeries, and local tavernas)

• Internal transfer and sightseeing: INR 1,000 – 2,000 (buses, ferries, entry tickets)

• Ideal Trip Duration: 7–10 days to mix city life with serene island escapes

Best Time to Visit:

April to June and September–October are ideal — pleasant weather, thinner crowds, and lower prices.
July and August are popular but come with higher rates and more tourists.

Best Food to Eat in Greece:

• Gyros & Souvlaki – Tasty, filling, and available almost everywhere for under €3

• Moussaka – A layered eggplant and meat dish, perfect for a hearty meal

• Spanakopita – Spinach and feta pie wrapped in crispy phyllo

• Greek Salad – Fresh, simple, and full of flavour

• Baklava – Layers of sweetness soaked in honey

• Loukoumades – Greek doughnuts drizzled with syrup or chocolate

Visa Requirement for Indians:

Greece is part of the Schengen Area, so Indian passport holders need a Schengen visa.

To get your Schengen visa appointment on time, Start your Schengen visa application with Atlys and get a dedicated concierge to help you. 

Additional Tips for Saving Money on European Holidays

Travelling through Europe doesn’t have to break the bank. With a bit of strategy and timing, you can explore the continent without overspending. Here are some practical tips to help you plan a budget-friendly European getaway:

1. 1. Book Flights in Advance
   Plan ahead and book your flights at least 2-3 months in advance. This is especially effective during the shoulder or off-season (spring and autumn), when fares are lower and destinations are less crowded.

2. 2. Use Flight Search Engines
   Compare prices using platforms like Skyscanner, Google Flights, and Zomunk. Set up fare alerts to track deals and discover the cheapest routes.

3. 3. Leverage Credit Card Points & Travel Rewards
   Use travel-friendly credit cards to book flights or hotels and redeem points or miles for significant discounts. Some cards also offer perks like free travel insurance, lounge access, or no foreign transaction fees.

4. 4. Consider Budget Airlines
   Budget airlines like Ryanair, Wizz Air, and EasyJet offer incredibly low fares for travelling within Europe. Just be sure to check baggage policies and hidden fees before booking.

5. 5. Travel in the Off-Season
   Avoid peak tourist months (June to August). Travelling in April–May or September–October often means lower prices on flights, accommodation, and even entry to popular attractions.

6. 6. Choose Budget Accommodations
   Opt for affordable lodging in hostels, guesthouses, or Airbnb—especially in wallet-friendly countries like Hungary, Slovakia, or Bulgaria. Booking sites like Hostelworld or Booking.com often feature user reviews and flexible cancellation options.

7. 7. Use Public Transportation
   Skip expensive taxis. Public buses and trains are reliable, clean, and cheap in countries like Poland, Georgia, and Greece. Consider getting local travel passes or regional rail cards for additional savings.

8. 8. Eat Like a Local
   Avoid tourist traps and try local street food, like gyros in Greece, byrek in Albania, or zapiekanka in Poland. Shopping at local markets and cooking simple meals (if your stay allows) is also a great way to save.

9. 9. Seek Out Free Activities
   Many European cities offer free walking tours, public museums, and open-air attractions. Explore Tallinn’s medieval Old Town, Lisbon’s scenic viewpoints, or Budapest’s thermal baths (some are free!) without spending a dime.

10. 10. Bundle Attractions with City Cards
    Look into city passes (like the Paris Pass or Berlin WelcomeCard) that bundle public transport and discounted entries to multiple attractions.

Think Europe is out of reach? Think again!

Travelling to Europe from India doesn’t have to burn a hole in your wallet. With a little planning and the right destinations, you can soak in the continent’s charm without the luxury price tag.

Explore underrated gems like Albania, Serbia, or Poland, where vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and hearty local cuisine await, at a fraction of the cost. From affordable flights to cosy guesthouses and mouthwatering street food, Europe on a budget is not just a dream - it’s totally doable!

So pack your bags, grab your travel journal, and start planning that unforgettable European escape. I'm sure it'll be a trip of a lifetime!

[Also Read: Here are the Top 10 Safe European Destinations To Consider]