7 European Destinations For Summer 2024 Under $1,000

In 2023, the influx of international tourists in Europe reached around 709 million, with France topping the list of most visited countries, not just within the continent, but also the world.

While the French capital is a major bucket-list spot, many other less crowded and cheaper alternative cities to Paris offer the same, if not more, French charm, history, and beauty on a budget, such as Strasbourg, France’s capital of Christmas, and Lille. Still, there’s more to Europe than France, even if it’s one of the continent’s most popular destinations.

In other words, there are many underrated cities and towns on the Old Continent to vacation in for less money and an even more authentic experience. Barring plane ticket prices, which are rarely affordable in the high tourist season throughout the warmer months, here are several proposed affordable European destinations for the summer of 2024 where you can have a great time for under $1,000.

7 Porto, Portugal

Average cost per solo traveler per week: $962 for accommodation, food, transportation, and sightseeing

Female solo travelers, in particular, will fall in love with Porto, a safe coastal city in Portugal with a friendly ambiance and delectable food. From the charming, walkable, cobblestone-paved streets to the stunning views of the Douro River and the world-famous, titular sweet red wine that is typically served with dessert, Porto will ensure an enriching and enjoyable stay, even on a budget.

The Sao Bento Railway Station alone, located in the historical center and built in the French style in 1916, attracts many visitors with its granite building and 20,000 hand-painted azulejo tiles.

6 Prague, Czech Republic

Average cost per solo traveler per week: $798 for accommodation, food, transportation, and sightseeing

With its grand libraries, cozy cafés, and fascinating monuments, Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic, is a haven for book lovers. It’s one of Europe’s most cultural hubs, not only for its stunning architecture, or for being Mozart’s favorite dwelling, but also because its Spring Festival hosts prestigious musicians and attracts visitors from all over the world.

Prague is a pleasant and affordable destination in summer, too, with warm but mild weather, great local brews, and a wide array of events.

5 Vilnius, Lithuania

Average cost per solo traveler per week: $711 for accommodation, food, transportation, and sightseeing

Vilnius, Lithuania’s charming and budget-friendly capital, is one of the cheapest cities in Europe to visit. Yet it is still underrated despite its pretty cobblestone streets, cozy cafés, warm locals, and generally laid-back atmosphere.

Not to mention that its remarkably preserved Old Town was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994 for its tasteful combination of Baroque, Gothic, Renaissance, and Neoclassical architecture.

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4 Palermo, Sicily, Italy

Average cost per solo traveler per week: $696 for accommodation, food, transportation, and sightseeing

Mediterranean vibes and history are some of the many things that entice vacationers to the sparkling city of Palermo, Sicily’s economic, touristic, and cultural capital. Visitors are charmed by the colorful combination of Romanesque, Gothic, Baroque, and Art Nouveau buildings and churches, the bustling nightlife, and the warmth of family-run eateries.

Signature dishes include arancini (fried rice balls), pasta con le sarde (pasta with locally caught sardines), and pesce spada alla ghiotta (swordfish in tomato sauce).

3 Ljubljana, Slovenia

Average cost per solo traveler per week: $658 for accommodation, food, transportation, and sightseeing

Ljubljana is Slovenia’s walkable and cyclable capital, and it’s famous for its energetic student population, outdoor cafés and restaurants, thriving art scene, and lush public spaces. Those who are fond of graffiti and street art had better check out the areas of Tabor and Metelkova Mesto, while vintage and thrift clothes lovers will find unique treasures in many independent boutiques.

As for events and festivals with free admission in the summer, they include Lighting Guerrilla, Mexican Flavors Day, the Blueberry Festival, and the International Volleyball on Water Championship.

2 Sibiu, Romania

Average cost per solo traveler per week: $509 for accommodation, food, transportation, and sightseeing

Medieval Sibiu is one of the most underrated but scenic Eastern European cities, along with Brest in Belarus and Bialystok in Poland. Founded by the Saxons, this Romanian jewel gravitates around Piata Mare, the biggest restaurant and shopping area.

Visitors will notice that many of its German and Hungarian-influenced houses look like they have watchful eyes on their roofs, which is an amusing optical illusion created by small attic windows.

It is customary to tip 5-10% for service in restaurants in Romania.

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1 Varna, Bulgaria

Average cost per solo traveler per week: $464 for accommodation, food, transportation, and sightseeing

Nestled on the Black Sea, Varna is Bulgaria’s third-largest city and boasts a mild climate. It’s mostly visited for its golden-sand beaches, delicious seafood, thermal springs, pedestrianized port and center, countless shopping opportunities, and vibrant nightlife.

The Varna Summer International Music Festival, a popular annual event from June to October, is another incentive to visit, as it features respected musicians, dancers, and singers from all over the world.

The Varna City Card, which costs about $20 for 72 consecutive hours, allows you to enjoy free entrance to over 10 museums and galleries and a free craft beer tour, as well as many discounts and deals.