With the U.S. dollar dropping in value and another economic downturn looking more and more likely, budget-conscious American travelers might want to be especially choosy right now about international vacation destinations.
Traveling where the dollar remains strong would seem to disqualify much of Europe from the running for vacationers who rank affordability as a top concern. After flirting with parity for a minute there (i.e., coming close to having the same value), the dollar and the euro have gone off in different directions again in the wake of all the tariff turmoil, with the U.S. currency sliding to a 3-year low against the euro.
That means greenbacks won’t go as far for hotel stays, restaurant meals, and other travel expenses in Europe compared to as recently as last fall.
But there are still bargains to be found.
For one thing, not every country in Europe uses the euro as the main currency, and in many of those nations, especially on the eastern side of the continent, the dollar continues to be strong.
For another, several places in Europe maintain a relatively low cost of living, regardless of their currency. So even if listed in euros, the prices are pretty low, especially compared to some U.S. cities where markups run rampant.
Here are eight places to consider for U.S. travelers seeking to keep their hopes alive for a European getaway in 2025—without breaking the bank.
All currency information accurate as of April 2025
Albania
For an Adriatic or Ionian coastline every bit as pretty but far less costly than what you’ll find in popular resort areas of nearby Croatia or Greece, consider the Balkan nation of Albania. The water is so clear near the beaches and islands of Ksamil, the boats seem to glide across glass. Capital city Tirana rewards visitors interested in Soviet-era history, public art, cheap cocktails, and accommodations under $100 per night. 1 USD = 87.27 Albanian lek
Lithuania
Lithuania’s baroque capital, Vilnius, was the most recent winner of the “best-value city” title in the City Costs Barometer compiled annually by the U.K.’s Post Office. Researchers determined that the castled and cobblestoned destination has Europe’s cheapest hotel rates (tied with Lille, France) and found that restaurant meals typically cost less than half what diners pay in other Continental capitals. Head for Lithuania’s Baltic Sea coast for classic resort towns and unspoiled nature reserves. 1 USD = 0.88 euro
Romania
The cost of living in Romania is among the lowest in Europe, according to Numbeo’s 2025 index. That translates to affordable lodging rates and cheap meals in capital city Bucharest, once known as the “Paris of the East” for its romantic architecture and impressive monuments, per The Independent. Forested Transylvania has an altogether moodier vibe, with its looming mountains and spooky castles. 1 USD = 4.38 Romanian leu
Montenegro
The Balkan nation of Montenegro likewise ranks low on Numbeo’s 2025 Cost of Living Index, with average prices almost three times cheaper than costs in the most expensive country, Switzerland. Named one of our favorite European destinations for summertime, Montenegro offers glacial lakes, an awe-inspiring canyon, medieval churches, and a sparkling Adriatic coastline along glamorous and historic resort towns such as Budva and Kotor. 1 USD = 0.88 euro
Poland
Only one country landed two cities on the most recent City Costs Barometer ranking of affordable European destinations. That would be Poland, and the two cities are Krakow in 4th place and Warsaw in 10th. Check out Krakow for its medieval center, lively market square, and historic Jewish Quarter. Polish capital Warsaw has further UNESCO-approved attractions as well as thriving arts and culture. Not to mention that Chase Travel data found that Warsaw vacations were approximately $500 cheaper than Roman ones last year. 1 USD = 3.76 Polish złoty
Portugal
If you’ve got your heart set on Western Europe, Portugal remains your best bet, budget-wise. And that’s true whether you’re interested in a city break or a beach getaway. Based on its low prices for meals and drinks, Lisbon came in second on the ranking of “best value city breaks” from the U.K.’s Post Office—though the organization notes hotel rates rose significantly in 2024. Porto scored well for meal prices, too. And the sunny, beachy Algarve region was named 2025’s “cheapest holiday destination” in a separate list. 1 USD = 0.88 euro
Serbia
Unlike many places in Europe at the moment, Serbia is actively courting tourists, promoting the country’s considerable natural charms, which include mountains for hiking, springs for soaking, and rivers for boating. Not that the place is only for outdoorsy types—the nightlife in Belgrade is legendary. Sweetening Serbia’s pitch: lodging rates in the neighborhood of $100 per night in cities—and often less in rural areas. 1 USD = 103.14 Serbian dinar
Bulgaria
Popular with British and European sun-seekers but perennially overlooked by U.S. travelers, Bulgaria’s Black Sea coastline has some of the cheapest prices for hotels, food, and drinks (less than $2 for a beer!) you’ll find anywhere in Europe. Journey inland and you’ll encounter mountains, waterways, and more savings in capital city Sofia, where many cultural attractions are free to visit and even 5-star accommodations don’t top $200 a night, according to U.S. News & World Report. 1 USD = 1.72 Bulgarian lev
Pictured at top: Sozopol, Bulgaria
