Top 10 Best Budget-Friendly Schengen Countries to Visit

Dreaming of a European getaway but worried about the cost? Fortunately, many of the stunning Schengen countries have experiences that don’t break the bank! Even budget conscious travelers will find plenty to see from charming medieval towns, breathtaking landscapes and delicious cuisine in Europe. If you are applying for a Schengen visa from Dubai, you will get many affordable destinations where you will be able to experience the beauty of Europe without overspending.

Budget travel in Europe for UAE residents is easier than ever if you are applying for a Schengen visa for UAE Residents. These cities have their own attractions and are cheap flights are cheap too, and there are plenty of free attractions. From the clubs to the food: These 10 cheap Schengen countries will cover your Europe travels’ check, and make your European trip fun and interesting!

Here are the Top 10 Best Budget-Friendly Schengen Countries to Visit

1. Poland – A Hidden Gem of Europe

Poland is an underrated place to visit in the sense that it is packed with medieval towns, rich history, and it’s a rich country when it comes to food so it’s reasonably priced and yet very tasty. Travelling on a budget in Kraków or Warsaw is perfect as it offers low cost of lodging, well priced public transport, as well as free of charge sight-seeing such as the Old Town and Wawel Castle. Poland is also among the cheapest places where dining in Europe is a delight.

2. Hungary – The Land of Thermal Baths

Budapest, especially Hungary is a paradise for travelers who want to relax and at the same time want to be cheap. Thermal baths such as Széchenyi and Gellért are famous in the city, and they provide a luxurious experience at a low cost. Public transport and dining is very cheap, the Parliament Building and Buda Castle are stunning attractions which can be admired for free.

3. Slovakia – A Nature Lover’s Paradise

With mountainous view, ancient castles, picturesque old towns, Slovakia is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. As expected of a budget friendly city, Bratislava, the capital, is a great place where you can find affordable accommodation as well as delicious local meals will not break your pocket. Many free, or very low cost, historical places to visit like Bratislava Castle can be found as well as incredible hikes in the High Tatras Mountains.

4. Czech Republic – Beyond Just Prague

However, Prague is not the only city in the Czech Republic that should be visited. Český Krumlov, with its fairy-tale-like streets and riverside charm, offers an unforgettable experience without high costs. The country is also well known for its affordable and world renowned beer, hearty meals and free or cheap cultural attractions, which make it a great place for budget travellers.

5. Portugal – Sun, Sea, and Savings

Western Europe has Portugal as one of the best budget friendly destinations. Cities like Lisbon and Porto offer affordable accommodations, cheap and delicious pastries like pastéis de nata, and budget-friendly public transport. There are stunning beaches in the Algarve and breathtaking landscapes in Sintra with the Portuguese constitution that they maintain sun, sea, and culture and while you don't have to empty your bank account to go there.

6. Greece – Affordable Island Escapes

If you want to travel to Greece, where you already know fantastic islands, amazing ancient ruins, and divine cuisine, you will find that it can also be cheap travel. Rather, spend less and visit Crete, Thessaloniki or Rhodes instead of Santorini and Mykonos. Stunning landscapes, cheap accommodation and traditional Greek tavernas with mouthwatering food at reasonable prices are on offer just these places.

7. Latvia – A Baltic Beauty

Latvia, in the North of Europe, is a hidden gem with superb architecture, impressive history and lively cultural scene at a low cost. The capital, Riga, has affordable hotels, delicious and reasonably priced local food, and lots of free attractions such as the beautiful Old Town and Art Nouveau district. Latvia’s unspoiled forests and scenes coastal areas also appeal to nature lovers.

8. Lithuania – History and Nature at a Low Cost

Lithuania is a great budget destination for history and nature lovers. Vilnius, with its ask any questions type, almost charming cobblestone streets and Baroque architecture, as well as affordable accommodations, serves as the capital city. The public transport is cheap and many historical sites, including the famous Gediminas Castle Tower, are either free or very cheap to visit. At no extra cost, it also has stunning nature in the form of the Curonian Spit.

9. Estonia – Digital Nomads’ Favorite Spot

Estonia is a dream destination for those who are travelling to love technology, history, and nature. Affordable street food, budget friendly cafes and Tallinn’s beautifully preserved medieval Old Town make it the capital. National parks and coastal areas are free to explore in the country’s natural beauty. The internet accessibility in Estonia is also super and it’s very popular among remote workers.

10. Spain – Affordable Culture and Cuisine

Spain is one of the best budget friendly destination, especially when you visit cities like Valencia, Seville or Granada. Have delicious and cheap tapas, visit stunning architectural landmarks and use free museum days. Spain’s public transport system is inexpensive and efficient, so it is easy to travel from one region to another without spending too much. Spain is a must visit, it is a combination of culture, food and affordability.

Conclusion: 

It is not too difficult to travel on a budget in Europe. Schengen countries are budget friendly and these countries offer breathtaking sights, rich culture and delicious cuisine at affordable prices. Every individual traveler can find a perfect destination if he is interested in medieval towns in Poland, soaking in thermal baths in Hungary, or enjoying sun-soaked beach experience in Portugal. Enjoy an unforgettable European adventure with low cost accommodations, affordable bus and train rides as well as lots of free European attractions.

If you’re a UAE resident, the first thing you can do to make your dream trip a reality is to apply for a Schengen visa from Dubai. Everything is very simple, and with your visa, you can travel to many Schengen countries without any hassle. So whether you are a solo traveler, a couple or a family on a tight budget, you will find these places of interest, in which you have the ability to mix actions, culture and savings. Therefore, begin your planning of trip today, and get as much out of what European experience as you can!