Bright and cheap: where to have a budget vacation in Europe in 2024

Summer is in full swing, and you're still looking for a budget-friendly vacation? Read on to find out where to go on a trip without spending a lot of money.

Bulgaria

Bulgaria is located in the eastern part of the Balkan Peninsula. The climatic conditions are mild, and the high air temperature in summer is not felt at all. The water in the sea is calm and clear. This country will surprise tourists with its diversity: from majestic castles to picturesque ancient settlements and lively modern cities.

Approximate prices:

• Flights (Warsaw – Sofia – Warsaw) – from $258
• Hostel room – from $14
• Double room in a hotel – from $28
• Breakfast in a budget cafe – from $5-9
• Bottle of water (1.5 liters) – $0.57
• A cup of coffee – $1.29
• Public transportation – from $0.99 to $1.2

Attractions:

• Botanical garden

The location is near the summer royal residence in the resort town of Balchik. It houses the second-largest collection of cacti in Europe. It is second only to the Monegasque one. The botanical garden also has exotic sequoias, magnolias, candy and juniper trees, lilies, and more.

In addition to the diversity of flora, there are several interesting monuments on the territory of the location. They are worth a closer look: Silver Well, Blue Star Villa, Chapel, Nymphaeum Water Palace, and the Quiet Nest estate.

• Pomorie Lake

The concentration of minerals in the reservoir is even higher than in the Dead Sea. That's why there are a lot of tourists here. Many come here to get rid of chronic diseases. But keep in mind that it is better not to do mud wraps without first consulting a doctor. The body can react negatively to the procedure.

While you are here, be sure to visit the Salt Museum, the Bird Sanctuary, and the Visitor Reception Building. Here guests can listen to lectures by ornithologists, watch documentaries and observe the inhabitants of the lake.

• Old Nessebar

The oldest city in the country. You won't believe it, but most of it is underwater. A large area was flooded several centuries ago. Only a small patch remained on the surface. The main sights are located on it: the ruins of Byzantine baths, the Hagia Sophia Basilica, and the western fortress wall.

To learn more about the history of the location, we recommend visiting the Archaeological and Ethnographic Museums.

Czech Republic

The country impresses with its natural wealth and architectural heritage: from majestic mountains and picturesque parks to mysterious caves and gushing geysers of Karlovy Vary.

Approximate prices:

• Flights (Warsaw – Prague – Warsaw) – from $284
• Hostel room – from $18
• Double hotel room – from $45
• Breakfast in a budget cafe – $7-9
• Bottle of water (1.5 liters) – $0.69
• A cup of coffee – $2.59
• Public transportation fare – $1.11

Sights:

• Prague Castle

One of the oldest castles in the world. And these are not just words, but a recorded fact in the Guinness Book of Records. By the way, the presidential administration is also located here, and the main cathedral of Prague was built here. It contains the tombs of famous Czech figures and the burial place of St. John of Nepomuk.

Be sure to visit the main shrine of the capital – St. Vitus Church, as well as the North Gate and the Royal Garden. By the way, these locations are free for guests. If you are in the castle at noon, we recommend watching the honorary changing of the guard.

• Czech paradise

The local landscapes were formed 250 million years ago. The most interesting attraction is the stone city, which was carved by the sea for several millennia. Here, tourists will find picturesque views, majestic fortresses, and towers at every turn. Travelers can either go hiking on their own or book a guided tour. The route usually passes through the Sihrov fortress, grottoes, and Crystal Lake.

• Moravian Karst

The complex has 1100 underground systems, but only five passages are open to the public: Punkiewskie and Słopsko-Szoszów caves, as well as Balzarka, Katerynska, and Wypustek. By the way, you can take a boat trip on the Punkwa River. The water transport offers a magnificent view of the reservoirs and canyons.

Slovenia

The country is known for its thermal springs and picturesque Adriatic coastline. It is home to many health resorts: Rogaska Slatina, Roman Baths, Olimia Baths, Dobrna, etc.

Approximate prices:

• Flights (Warsaw – Ljubljana – Warsaw) – from $364
• Hostel room – from $27
• Double room in a hotel – from $99
• Breakfast in a budget cafe – $15
• A bottle of water (1.5 liters) – $0.86
• A cup of coffee – $1.99
• Public transportation – $1.60

Sights:

• Bled Lake

Located among the mountain peaks in the northwest of the country. In the middle of the reservoir is the Chapel of the Assumption and the legendary Bell of Wishes. If you want your dream to come true, don't forget to ring it.

The castle of the same name also stands nearby. It used to serve as a residence for monarchs, and now it is a museum.

• Postojna Pit

A system of karst caves with limestone walls. The temperature here remains at 10°C all year round. It also houses an aquarium with a "human fish". By the way, you don't have to feel your way around. Since the XIX century, the dungeon has been equipped with electric lighting and a railway.

• Idriia

The mining town was created on the site of former farms. It was created because of a local peasant who found glimpses of mercury in a well. The most famous attraction is the Technical Museum, which is located in the Heverkeng Castle.

The area is also famous for its unusual lace and juniper vodka. If you like strong liqueurs, you should try this drink.

It's time to plan your dream trip. Choose a route and go for good impressions.

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