My Proudest Cheapskate Destinations in Europe (So Far)

Europe in summer can be magical—long golden evenings, open-air concerts, coastal road trips, and bustling historic cities alive with festivals. But for many travelers, summer in Europe also means sky-high prices. So what if I told you that some of my richest experiences cost little to nothing? That I wandered ancient cities for free, hiked world-class trails without paying entry fees, and ate soul-satisfying meals for under €5?

Here’s my list of the best countries in Europe to visit in summer 2025—with a cheapskate twist. These are places where you can stretch your budget without sacrificing adventure, culture, or beauty. Whether you’re a backpacker, budget couple, or savvy solo explorer, this guide is for you.

🇮🇹 1. Italy – Dolomites & Free Pompeii Entry

Italy is a classic—and for good reason. Art, food, ancient ruins, and coastal charm make it a dream destination. But did you know many of Italy’s major sites have free entrance days?

Budget Travel Highlights in Italy:

• Pompeii: Visit on the first Sunday of every month for free entry to one of the most iconic archaeological sites in the world. Check out beniculturali.it for an up-to-date list of free admission days.

• The Dolomites: This alpine region in northern Italy is a paradise for hikers and mountain lovers. You’ll find epic views, well-marked trails, and tiny alpine huts—all without the Swiss-level price tag.

• Venice: Explore off-the-beaten-path neighborhoods like Cannaregio, where you’ll pay half the price for spritz and pasta compared to the touristy Grand Canal.

Cheapskate Tip: Always check if a town or site offers a carta turistica (tourist card). Many provide free or discounted public transit, museum entries, and local tours.

🇫🇷 2. France – Free Castles & Fortuitous Protests

France may conjure images of pricey Parisian cafés, but rural and small-town France has a different rhythm—and occasionally, freebies handed to you by fate.

Budget Travel Highlights in France:

• Mont-Saint-Michel: I once got in for free because of a staff strike. A classic French “protest perk”!

• Château de Puilaurens: No one was there to take my ticket money. Sometimes, it pays to show up late in the day or mid-week.

• Normandy & Languedoc: Head to these regions for rich history, creamy cuisine, and significantly fewer tourists than Provence.

Cheapskate Tip: Many smaller museums and castles across France are free on the first Sunday of the month or during Journées du Patrimoine in September.

🇵🇹 3. Portugal – Northern Hidden Gems

While Lisbon and the Algarve are beloved, they’ve also become pricier in recent years. That’s why I headed north to discover a quieter, cheaper, and arguably more authentic side of Portugal.

Budget Travel Highlights in Portugal:

• Braga & Guimarães: History, walkability, and medieval charm without the crowds.

• Serra da Estrela: Portugal’s highest mountain range offers amazing hiking and stunning views with barely any tourists.

• Alto Douro Wine Region: Rent a car or take a scenic train ride through rolling vineyards and sleepy towns.

Cheapskate Tip: In small towns, you can still find lunch menus for under €8, often including wine.

🇸🇮 4. Slovenia – The Julian Alps on a Budget

Slovenia is Europe’s best-kept Alpine secret. The Julian Alps offer turquoise lakes, fairytale towns like Bled, and peaceful hiking trails—all at a fraction of what you’d pay in Austria or Switzerland.

Don’t Miss:

• Lake Bohinj: Less crowded and more affordable than Lake Bled.

• Vršič Pass: One of Europe’s most scenic mountain drives—and free.

• Triglav National Park: Entry is free, and camping is cheap and well-regulated.

Cheapskate Tip: Slovenia’s public transport is affordable, and hitchhiking is still fairly common among locals and backpackers.

🇭🇷 5. Croatia – Island Hopping Without the Hype

Yes, Dubrovnik is gorgeous. But you’ll pay for the privilege. The real magic (and savings) lie just off the beaten track.

Budget Travel Highlights in Croatia:

• Šibenik: Medieval streets, stunning fortresses, and fewer crowds than Split or Dubrovnik.

• Mljet: An island national park with pine forests, lakes, and blissful quiet.

• Jadrolinija Ferries: Skip overpriced tours and island-hop like a local.

Cheapskate Tip: Travel in late June or early September to enjoy warm weather without peak season prices.

🇦🇹 6. Austria – Summer in the Alps

Austria is more than Vienna and ski resorts. In summer, you’ll find lush alpine valleys, crystal-clear lakes, and charming chalets.

Budget Travel Highlights in Austria:

• Salzkammergut: Lakeside towns like Hallstatt (go early!) and St. Gilgen.

• Tyrol: Epic hiking, cozy mountain huts, and regional dishes that’ll keep you full all day.

Cheapskate Tip: Look for guesthouses that include a Gästekarte with discounts or even free cable car and bus rides.

🇪🇸 7. Spain – Island Hiking in Mallorca

Mallorca isn’t just beaches and British package holidays. Head inland to the Tramuntana Mountains and you’ll find dramatic cliffs, citrus orchards, and small towns with soul.

Top Picks:

• Sóller and Valldemossa: Perfect for day hikes and scenic cafés.

• Public Buses: Efficient and cheap for getting between the beach and the mountain.

Cheapskate Tip: Airbnb options inland or in smaller towns are far cheaper than Palma or beach resorts.

🇳🇴 8. Norway – The Once-in-a-Lifetime Trip

Norway isn’t cheap, but it’s doable with smart planning. For our 10th anniversary, my wife and I splurged on a fjord cruise, and it was worth every kroner.

Budget Travel Tips in Norway:

• Overnight Buses & Trains: Save on lodging while covering long distances.

• Regional Airlines: Widerøe often has sales on domestic flights.

• Public Outdoor Cabins: Norway’s allemannsretten (right to roam) allows for free camping and basic mountain huts.

Cheapskate Tip: Bring a refillable water bottle and snacks—groceries are cheaper than eating out.

🇧🇬 9. Bulgaria – All-Inclusive & Family-Friendly

If you’re traveling with kids, Bulgaria is your secret weapon. Its Black Sea resorts offer affordable packages that include food, pools, and beach access.

Where to Go:

• Sunny Beach or Golden Sands: Cheaper than Greece or Italy, with family-friendly amenities.

• Plovdiv: One of Europe’s oldest cities, filled with Roman ruins and hip cafés.

Cheapskate Tip: Use local buses to explore the coast. They’re reliable and cost next to nothing.

🇬🇷 10. Greece – Hot, Historic, and Affordable

Greece is still one of Europe’s best value destinations. While it lacks all-inclusive resorts in most areas, you gain the freedom to hop between islands and eat like a king for the price of a fast-food meal.

My Top Tips:

• Eat street souvlaki or gyros—still under €3 in many towns.

• Use Blue Star Ferries: More reliable and cheaper than high-speed options.

• Stay on lesser-known islands like Naxos or Tinos.

Cheapskate Tip: Book ferry tickets early and travel during the week for lower fares.

🇭🇺 & 🇸🇰 11. Hungary & Slovakia – Underrated Danube Detours

This region is often overlooked, but it’s perfect for budget travelers who love castles, culture, and fewer tourists.

Highlights:

• Budapest: Free walking tours, ruin bars, and thermal baths like Széchenyi.

• Bratislava: Just an hour away by train, with a charming Old Town and scenic hilltop views.

• Slovakian Tatra Mountains: Incredible alpine hiking for a fraction of Swiss prices.

Cheapskate Tip: Grab a Budapest Card for unlimited transit and museum entries.

How to Travel Europe in Summer Without Going Broke

Traveling Europe in summer 2025 doesn’t have to mean blowing your budget. With smart timing, a bit of research, and a willingness to go where fewer tourists tread, you’ll discover landscapes and cultures that are as affordable as they are unforgettable.

From the misty Julian Alps in Slovenia to unexpected free entrances in France, and from the scenic coastlines of Croatia to the soul-restoring stillness of Portugal’s northern mountains, there’s a summer adventure waiting for every kind of traveler.

Let your curiosity lead you. Let your budget guide you. And let Europe surprise you.