An individual trip to Europe is an opportunity to immerse yourself in the culture, history and atmosphere of ancient cities. European places invite the traveler to get acquainted with their unique beauty, accessible even for a limited budget. Find out which cities offer not only adventure, but also a chance to make new friends among the cobblestone streets and the magic of evening lights

There’s something thrilling about travelling on your own and if it’s variety you’re after, Europe is it.

A tight budget doesn’t need to get in your way, either. Especially since there are a handful of European cities that are both affordable and fulfilling for solo travelers.

Affordable European Cities for Solo Travelling

If you’re planning a solo trip with limited funds, here are a few European destinations you should consider first.

Budapest, Hungary

First on this list is Budapest, where the historic architecture is something else.

And when you’ve spent a day wandering around, there are a number of rejuvenating thermal baths you can enjoy. Szechenyi Thermal Baths is one of the best spots for this.

Budapest also has great nightlife, giving you the perfect opportunity to meet locals and fellow travelers.

Solo travel tip: Kick off your journey with a free walking tour. It’s a relaxed way to learn about the city’s history, discover hidden gems, and meet other travelers while staying safe in a guided group.

Athens, Greece

If you’d prefer a destination in Mediterranean Europe, Athens is perfect. There are plenty of budget-friendly places to stay, and you won’t be short on something to do.

Visiting Athens, you can look forward to iconic landmarks such as the Acropolis, the Temple of Hephaestus, and the Panathenaic Stadium. The street markets are also one of the highlights.

Solo travel tip: Instead of a guided tour, download a detailed audio guide or podcast series about the Acropolis and other historical sites. This allows you to explore at your own pace, pausing and revisiting areas that interest you most.

Lisbon, Portugal

Food, lodging, and transport are really affordable in Lisbon, plus it’s a beautiful European destination.

Lisbon is ideal for solo travelers who really want to relax. The climate is warm (so pack accordingly), the neighborhoods are safe, and the Algarve is just a 174-mile journey away.

Solo travel tip: Use the city’s efficient public transport, especially its trams, to get around. Enhance your experience by joining a local food or art tour to discover off-the-beaten-path neighborhoods and make new friends.

Prague, Czech Republic

Prague is a true fairytale city – think castles, bridges, and cobbled streets.

You’ll be spoiled for choice with things to do, but Charles Bridge, Prague Castle, Passage Lucerna and Old Town Square are sites you have to see. 

Solo travel tip: Join local meetups or hostel events to connect with both locals and fellow travelers. This is also the best way to get insider tips on avoiding common tourist pitfalls.

Porto, Portugal

Porto is another city in Portugal that’s ideal for solo traveling.

Besides the value for money, you’ll have access to a number of historical sites, charming riverside views and some fantastic wine bars; Arco Das Verdades and Prova are some of the best!

Solo travel tip: Take a Douro River boat tour to see the city from a new perspective and interact with other solo adventurers.

Your Solo Adventure Awaits

Any European city is perfect for your next solo trip, but if you want to save some money, start with these cities.

Whichever destination you decide on, you’ll be busy, well-fed, and will certainly make some new friends along the way.

Let us remind you! Studying abroad is not only a chance to get a good international education, but also a great opportunity to travel and get acquainted with the culture of different countries. However, travel can often become a significant expense for students, so most expats prefer budget destinations. We have already told you where in Europe a student can travel without spending a lot of money.

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