Key Points
- In 2025, several locations in Europe provide budget travel options.
- People can travel to lesser-known destinations like Warsaw and Antwerp in Europe in a budget.
- Travel budget can be further decreased by going during the off-season and making use of free activities in towns of Europe
2025 might be the one for you to fulfill your dream of traveling to Europe on a budget.
Data from Chase Vacation shows that many places across the pond offer exceptional vacation experiences without breaking the wallet. Based on booking trends and internal travel experts, the travel booking and rewards platform recently unveiled its first annual list of the top 25 destinations to visit in 2025.
This year, some European towns offer reasonably priced lodging, flights, transportation, and other services. These destinations include well-known locations like Amsterdam and up-and-coming gems like Antwerp, Belgium.
Tourists can cut costs on their European vacation next year. One way to do this is to explore destinations beyond the traditional tourist hotspots of Paris, London, and Madrid. Unknown European destinations like Antwerp, Belgium, and Warsaw, Poland, are becoming more appealing. They are becoming more affordable, according to Hillary Reinsberg, head of editorial for travel, lifestyle, and dining at Chase.
Budget travel to Europe: Warsaw, Poland
Poland’s capital, although often overlooked, offers visitors a rich history. Visitors can explore its historical sites, including the UNESCO-listed Old Town, the POLIN Museum, a burgeoning arts and cultural scene, and green areas like Łazienki Park. Warsaw has a great nightlife scene and some excellent boutique hotels. Reinsberg stated that these are available at a fraction of the cost of other cities. According to Chase Travel data, traveling to Warsaw was cheaper on average including flights and accommodations. It was approximately $500 cheaper than traveling to Rome in 2024.
Budget travel to Europe: Antwerp, Belgium
Antwerp, the second-biggest city in Belgium, may be overshadowed by Brussels, but that makes it feel more relaxed and low-key. With so many designers and artists residing in this port city, it also has a long history of inventiveness. Before touring the ModeMuseum, visitors can stroll through the vibrant street art. The ModeMuseum honors Antwerp’s significant fashion scene, and the Museum Plantin-Moretus, a UNESCO World Heritage Site devoted to the history of printing.
“Antwerp is a design hub that’s perfect for travelers excited about architecture, design, fashion, and food,” Reinsberg stated. “Everything is accessible and simple to navigate in smaller crowds. We chose Antwerp as a must-visit worldwide location for 2025. It is a fantastic solution for people freaked out by excessive tourism.
Budget travel to Europe: Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon is rapidly becoming a popular European destination, combining charming pastel-colored architecture and cobblestone streets with a laid-back, seaside atmosphere. The city is reasonably priced for travelers. The average hotel cost is about $300 per night, according to Chase Travel booking data for 2025.
Lisbon’s charming neighborhoods and scenic tram rides are great for a budget-friendly adventure. Reinsberg said they offer delicious pastries. They also offer endless cool wine bars and stunning views that won’t break the bank.
Dublin, Ireland
Dublin has a rich literary and musical history and is renowned for its old-world charm. Its walkability makes it easy for visitors to see sites like the Dublin Writers Museum and the Abbey Theatre. These sites are easily accessible by foot. According to Reinsberg, visitors can explore historic buildings, partake in free walking tours, and experience the vibrant pub culture of the city.
“Chase Travel booking data also shows that in Dublin the average hotel cost has slightly decreased year-over-year,” Reinsberg stated.
Amsterdam, Netherlands
Amsterdam has the highest tourist tax in Europe, leading to efforts to combat overtourism. However, conscientious visitors can still enjoy the city without breaking the bank by visiting during less crowded and off-season periods. Travelers can explore Amsterdam’s picturesque canals on a budget. Reinsberg stated that affordable bike rentals and free-entry museums on select days are available.
Reykjavik, Iceland
“Travellers can take advantage of relatively affordable (and quick!) flights and put their budget towards exploring the natural beauty of Iceland,” Reinsberg said, recalling that a direct flight from the West Coast takes approximately eight hours. “Reykjavik also has several budget-friendly hostels and free geothermal pools.” Reykjavik is known for being a safe, friendly, and walkable city. However, it is also notorious for being expensive when it comes to hotels, food, and drink.
The Athens Riviera, Greece
If you believe a trip to Greece will be luxurious, you should reconsider. Island-hopping around Greece can be expensive, but travelers might be interested in the Athens Riviera. The Athens Riviera offers beautiful beaches and a lively seaside dining scene, with no ferries or extra flights required. The Athens Riviera, like Santorini, Crete, and Paros, is easily accessible from the city. It offers stunning beaches, resorts by the sea, and cafes along the waterfront.
Finding reasonably priced lodging helps save expenses. Even though certain locations are more upscale and costly, avoiding the busiest summer months can also help. “With lots of new development in the area, it was another of our must-visit destinations for 2025,” Reinsberg said.
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