6 Cheap Countries to Visit in Europe in 2021 | Flightlayaway

 We can feel travel in the air again. If you are like us, you may be planning a trip soon after getting the vaccine shot. Here's an idea. Did you know that you can travel across Europe without paying exorbitant prices that make your account balance dwindle every minute? Whether it's for a little escapism, a special treat, or just an excuse to check out some of the cheapest spots, Europe is a draw for budget travelers. There are a wealth of destinations in Europe for everyone to enjoy? from blue coasts with sandy beaches to valleys and mountains to historical destinations that date back more than a thousand years.

So, if you're looking for the cheapest countries to visit in Europe this year, check out our list of the most affordable European countries to plan your much-awaited next trip.

Poland

Centrally located in Europe, Poland is known for its breathtaking scenery, captivating castles, delightful parks, and much more. A trip to Krakow or Warsaw is perfect for a visit in the shoulder season between March and April when the weather is warming up, the prices are still low, and castles and palaces that were closed during the winter are opening up again, often at discounted prices.

Many of Poland's most visited sites - like Auschwitz-Birkenau and Schindler's factory ? are less busy in the off-season. Many other attractions around the country are either very cheap or free to access, including climbing the Old Town Hall tower for magnificent views in Krakow, the 13th-century Castle of the Teutonic Order in Malbork, and the ancient Bialowieza Forest.

The weekend pass (Bilet Weekendowy) offers you unlimited rides on most trains throughout the country on weekends. Some of the country's most famous attractions are budget-friendly and easily accessible, including many monuments and buildings. Government-run museums are also free once every week. With all that money saved, you can buy a few extra beers (which are also ridiculously cheap!).

Portugal

If you are looking for beautiful beaches, delectable street food, and copious amounts of wine, then Portugal is absolutely worth your time. You might be surprised to know it is one of the cheapest countries in Western Europe. Nature, the sun, and the outdoors are the primary reasons to visit Portugal - meaning they're usually free. A popular destination in the Faro District is its golden sands, cliffs, and lighthouses, while in Madeira visitors head there to explore the rugged volcanic hiking trails, the beautiful harbor, and the great scuba diving.

A trip to Portugal in the off-season will greatly reduce costs, as food and accommodations are the biggest expenses. Prices drop even more between November and February, but temperatures remain around 62.6°F- 63°F, which is the perfect time to get great bargains.

Many of Portugal's most interesting destinations are free to explore - other than the transportation to get you there. Among these is the ancient town of Evora, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the Templar Castle and Convent of Christ in the town of Tomar.

Hungary

Do you know Hungary is considered the best value for money destination in Europe year after year? It is home to many cool towns and villages in addition to Budapest's bustling nightlife, thermal baths, and cathedrals. The nearby cities of Pécs, Miskolc, and Eger are also worth a visit.

Even Hungary's capital, Budapest, has many free attractions, such as walking on the Chain Bridge across the Danube or exploring Castle Hill. While some of the attractions in the Castle area - including the Buda Castle and Castle Labyrinth? aren't free to visit, they are still very affordable. You can visit many famous landmarks around Budapest during the "Night of the Museums" in June.

Located in Budapest's oldest indoor market, the Great Market Hall, you can find cheap souvenirs and snacks, including many traditional Hungarian foods, while exploring the neo-Gothic structure. One of the best ways to save money when visiting is to eat street food - the country's favorite fast food is lángos, which is deep-fried pizza with cheese, tomato sauce, or sour cream.

Things cost considerably cheaper outside of the capital. For those seeking adventure near the Bükk Mountains and Tihany Lake, prices are even lower all year round.

Czech Republic

Budget travelers must not pass up the chance to visit this central European country for its diverse architecture, beautiful castles, glorious history, and enchanting nightlife scene. If you are planning a trip to places other than the capital city of Prague, you will be able to find plenty of bargains. January and February are the cheapest months, but you can really save on flights and accommodations from March through May.

Many attractions are free, and many others can be found on hikes - so don't pay for a tour guide, but explore them yourself. This includes strolling along Charles Bridge, stopping at the Astronomical Clock, and exploring the cobblestone streets of Old Town Square and its medieval buildings.

Many other major destinations in the Czech Republic are significantly cheaper - including the fairy-tale town of Cesky Krumlov, the unusual town of Sedlec and its ossuary chapel, and the never-ending trails and mountains in Bohemian Switzerland National Park. It is possible to book affordable hotels at these destinations even during the high season.

Montenegro

Traveling cheap? Montenegro won't disappoint. It is a bit of everywhere in a country still trying to find itself - expect very cheap food prices as long as you stick to the hearty, meaty local foods such as a meat-stuffed pie-like burek; anything else will mean touristy prices. Most cities also have farmer's markets on weekends, a great place to get a quick snack or a quick bite to eat for very cheap.

If you're planning to visit hip coastal towns such as Budva or Herceg Novi in the summer, skip the summer; otherwise, explore rugged mountains, glacial lakes, and UNESCO walled towns. Located atop a mountain in the heart of lush green forests, Crno Jezero is a gorgeous place for hiking and watersports, and it's free for everyone to enjoy.

A small island away from the expensive shoreline towns, Ada Bojana is a prime destination for kitesurfing and a lovely summer destination.

Italy

One of the cheapest countries in Western Europe to visit is Italy. Italian public transportation is so great that there is never a need to take a taxi while there. But, if you want to visit everything, such as Pompeii and Milan, in one go, you'll have to spend a fortune on high-speed trains. Keep to a region and move around on local trains and buses, it will be great for your wallet.

But if you absolutely must see the sights of Rome and Venice on your one visit, the slower trains on the local lines will take three times longer, but reduce your costs. It is no different when it comes to the country's most popular attractions, such as the Colosseum and the Vatican, which all require significant entry fees. Just pick your favorites and then spend the rest of your time in places like the Villa Borghese Gardens or tossing coins into the Trevi Fountain.

The best way to save money in Italy is to avoid visiting in summer when everything costs more, and the lines for attractions are an hour-long, and the sticky weather makes it even more inconvenient. From November to February, you will find great deals on accommodations and often eventslayaway.

But remember, a visit to Italy wouldn't be complete without a big plate of pasta at a trattoria, or a visit to the country's local markets. Browse through the weekend markets to pick up some cheese, fresh bread, and quick-to-eat snacks like fette biscottate to create your own meals.

Europe has many budget-friendly destinations to choose from. You don't need to spend a ton on travel if you know where to go for the best deals in Europe. Knowing that you can now explore Europe on a budget, you now have a more difficult task at hand: choosing where to visit first!