TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - European vacations are getting more expensive due to rising prices. Many cities once considered cheap, such as Istanbul, Turkey, are no longer so affordable. Popular tourist cities in Spain, Italy, and Greece are experiencing overtourism, driving prices up. However, for travelers on a budget, there are several European cities worth visiting.
These cities are quieter, so flights can be much cheaper, but they offer attractions that are no less attractive than other European destinations. Here's a list of the cheapest cities in Europe, according to Time Out.
1. Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina
Sarajevo, the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina, remains very affordable. Tours don't require a lot of money, as tourists can walk and enjoy many free walking tours. The city holds a wealth of history from the Bosnian war that took place in the early 1990s. An Airbnb room in this city costs an average of 35 euros or Rp 665,000 per night.
2. Tirana, Albania
Instead of crowded and expensive Greece, Albania could be your next vacation destination because it boasts beaches that are just as good as those in Greece, Spain, and Italy. Furthermore, its capital, Tirana, is rich in Communist-era history, such as Bunk'art 1, a Cold War bunker converted into a museum. The average price for an Airbnb room in this city is 46 euros or Rp 874,000.
3. Sofia, Bulgaria
Besides a mix of communist traces, Roman ruins, and Byzantine architecture, Sofia boasts Mount Vitosha, the oldest national park in the Balkans, located nearby. Tourists can also enjoy free Balkan cuisine, as many restaurants offer hearty samples. Staying in Sofia costs an average of 55 euros or around Rp 1 million per night in an Airbnb room.
4. Bucharest, Romania
If you're looking for fun, come to Bucharest. Its nightlife is a major draw, with lively bars at night. Tourists can also sample traditional food at affordable prices. For overnight stays, the average Airbnb room costs 53 euros or IDR 1 million per night.
5. Riga, Latvia
Art lovers will love Riga because it's all about art nouveau. The architecture is truly beautiful, and there's a large and bustling creative scene. If you like modern art, visit Putti. But if you prefer something more traditional, come to Rgas Bira. To stay in Riga, the average room price is 59 euros or IDR 1.1 million.
6. Zagreb, Croatia
The capital of Croatia is quite underrated, hidden in the shadow of popular destinations like Split and Dubrovnik. Besides the affordable accommodation and food, the average Airbnb room in this city costs 61 euros or IDR 1.2 million per night.
7. Kaunas, Lithuania
Kaunas was designated the European Capital of Culture for 2022. The city has many exhibition spaces open year-round, such as the Mykolas Šilinskas Art Gallery. For something unique, visit the Devil's Museum. The average price for an Airbnb room in Kaunas is 69 euros or Rp 1.3 million.
8. Krakow, Poland
This festival-themed city boasts old-world history. There are many medieval sites alongside nightlife. Krakow also hosts numerous festivals such as the Summer Jazz Festival and the Krakow Film Festival, as well as the International Soup Festival. The average price for an Airbnb room is 69 euros or Rp 1.3 million per night.
9. Hull, England
This old city in England is also relatively affordable for Europe. Hull is rich in history, having survived the Hull Blitz during World War II. Interestingly, prices in this city tend to be cheaper than other cities like Bristol, Glasgow, and Manchester, which have already rivaled London. An average stay here costs 81 euros or Rp 1.5 million for an Airbnb room.
10. Cesky Krumlov, Czech Republic
This city is similar to Prague, but without the party crowd. Its winding, Baroque streets feature a large castle complex in the city center. The city is beautiful in summer, but for truly breathtaking views, visit in winter when it's blanketed in snow. An average nightly rate for an Airbnb room is 89 euros (approximately Rp 1.7 million).
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