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Seek out some good cheap eats, book your accommodation in advance and travel outside of peak season – we’ve all got our ways of pinching the pennies when visiting Europe’s best cities.
But, really, the best thing you can do to enjoy Europe on a budget is look beyond the big hitters like Rome, Amsterdam and Barcelona. That’s why we’ve scoured Europe and compiled a packed list of destinations which are not only kind on the wallet, but also come with subsequent advantages such as fewer crowds and cheaper flight options.
So, where is the most budget-friendly place for a city break in 2026? Well, according to our research, bragging pints for a mere €2.30 (that’s just £1.97) and a one-night stay in an Airbnb of around €40 (only £34), it’s – drum roll, please! – Sarajevo!
That’s right: the Bosnia and Herzegovina capital, which is backdropped by the lush Dinaric Alps and divided by the Miljacka River, is our top recommendation for a budget-friendly city break.
What should you do in Sarajevo? Head to covered food market Gradska tržnica Markale and fill your boots with burek (a flaky, savoury traditional pastry) before stopping for a couple of those beers or glasses of wine (both from as little as €2). Oh, and Caffe Divan is a brilliant spot for proper Bosnian coffee.
Not only are prices low for dining, drinking and exploring, but unlike a lot of destinations, there’s generally very little pressure to spend – we’d advise you luxuriate in exploring the pretty streets and get involved in a free walking tour that’ll take you past sights like the Latin Bridge.
Time Out’s guides editor Ella Doyle recommends visiting the city in August, ‘when the city is at its sunny best – but by far the biggest reason is Sarajevo Film Festival, one of the greatest of its kind in southeastern Europe.’
Have we sold you? Have a look at all the best local Airbnbs.
Europe’s best budget-friendly breaks, according to Time Out
- Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina
- Tirana, Albania
- Hull, UK
- Miskolc, Hungary
- Zagreb, Croatia
Check out the full list of the 13 best cheap city breaks in Europe for 2026.
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