If you’re planning a trip abroad, you no doubt already have a few popular (and probably pricey) destinations in mind. Whether on a short visit or a longer stay, Europe beckons to the worldly traveler! But what if you could take your dream vacation at a fraction of the cost? Here is a list of affordable alternatives to eight Europian vacation hot spots.

Istanbul

Istanbul
This magical meeting place of East and West has more top-drawer attractions than it has minarets (and that’s a lot).

Some ancient cities are the sum of their monuments, but İstanbul factors a lot more into the equation. Chief among its manifold attractions are the locals, who have an infectious love of life and generosity of spirit. This vibrant, inclusive and expanding community is full of people who work and party hard, treasure family and friendships, and have no problem melding tradition and modernity in their everyday lives.

Where it’s wallet-friendly: Many of Istanbul’s top cultural sights (including Taksim Square and the Blue Mosque) won’t cost you a penny. Plus, traditional mezes (tapas-style plates) are popular, inexpensive and served at a variety of meyhanes (traditional dining establishments in Turkey).

Lisbon, Portugal

Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon’s seven hills, cool cafes and elaborate Manueline architecture entice those looking for a blend of Old World charm and modern conveniences. Popular pastimes include savoring pastéis de nata (cinnamon and custard tarts) at a coffee shop and traversing Alfama’s winding streets in search of iconic sites like St. George’s Castle and the Sé Cathedral.

Where it’s wallet-friendly: Many of Lisbon’s remarkable sites, including its museums, are free to tour on the first Sunday of each month. Save even more by picking up a Lisboa Card, which offers reduced fare on public transportation.
Barcelona

 Barcelona
Barcelona is an enchanting seaside city with boundless culture, fabled architecture, and a world-class drinking and dining scene.

Barcelona’s great artistic traditions don’t end at the canvas. The masters of molecular gastronomy – Albert Adrià, Carles Abellan et al – are part of the long and celebrated tradition of Catalan cooking. Simple, flavourful ingredients – seafood, jamón (cured ham), market-fresh produce – are transformed into remarkable delicacies and then served up in captivating settings. You can feast on hearty, rich paella at an outdoor table overlooking the sea or step back to the 1920s at an elegant art nouveau-filled dining room. Barcelona’s wide-ranging palate adds further complexity: Basque-style tapas bars, Galician seafood taverns, avant-garde Japanese restaurants and sinful chocolate shops are all essential parts of the culinary landscape.

Where it’s wallet-friendly: This vibrant Spanish city is chock-full of free attractions, from Parc Güell to La Seu, plus many of its dining and hotel options are more cost-effective than other European hot spots.

Kraków, Poland

Kraków, Poland
Krakow is one of the most culturally and politically significant cities in Poland. It was the central site of the Nazi General Government during WWII, and there’s still a residual feeling of solemnity here that’s especially apparent during visits to the Plaszow Concentration Camp and the Oskar Schindler Factory. Both the Historic City Centre and the Jewish District are brimming with cafés, shops, and pubs, and the 10-acre Main Market Square is a medieval feast for the senses.

Where it’s wallet-friendly: Compared to other European cities across the continent, Kraków is exceedingly budget-friendly, with two of its must-see sites, Rynek Glówny and Auschwitz, available to travelers free of charge.

Crete, Greece

Crete, Greece
Crete is known for its impressive archeological sites but that’s not all this Greek isle has going for it. Beachcombers can stretch out beneath swaying palms at Vai Beach, while adventurers get their hearts racing at Samaria Gorge in Chania. Meanwhile, history enthusiasts can catch a glimpse into Crete’s past at the Palace of Knossos or the Heraklion Archaeological Museum.

Where it’s wallet-friendly: Exploring Crete’s sandy beaches, palm-laden forests and craggy mountains is free of charge. Plus, enjoying meals at authentic tavernas is a cheap (and delicious) way to eat affordably.

Berlin

Berlin
Berlin’s combo of glamour and grit is bound to mesmerise anyone keen to explore its vibrant culture, cutting-edge architecture, fabulous food, intense parties and tangible history.

Forget about New York – Berlin is the city that truly never sleeps. Sometimes it seems as though Berliners are the lotus eaters of Germany, people who love nothing more than a good time. The city’s vast party spectrum caters for every taste, budget and age group. From tiny basement clubs to industrial techno temples, chestnut-canopied beer gardens to fancy cocktail caverns, saucy cabarets to ear-pleasing symphonies – Berlin delivers hot-stepping odysseys, and not just after dark and on weekends but pretty much 24/7. Pack your stamina!

Where it’s wallet-friendly: Berlin offers a convenient and inexpensive subway system. Plus, off-the-beaten-path neighborhoods like Berlin East boast a vibrant nightlife that’s more budget-friendly than venues in the west – a major bonus for visiting night owls.

Dubrovnik, Croatia

Dubrovnik, Croatia
Beyond Dubrovnik’s enticing seaside fortress, there’s much to explore from pebbly beaches to religious sites like Dubrovnik Cathedral and the Franciscan Monastery. Soak it all in by meandering through the Old Town, where a wealth of historic sites, scenic alleyways and charming cafes await.

Where it’s wallet-friendly: This Croatian city is perfect for cost-conscious travelers thanks to its budget-friendly hotels in Lapad Bay. Maximize savings by visiting during the shoulder season – September to October – when temperatures and hotel rates dip, and the region’s olive harvests begin.

Central Dalmatia

Central Dalmatia
It is easy to spend a month, never mind a week, here, exploring its intriguing historical towns and cities, and relaxing on its many rugged islands such as Hvar and Vis, with their pristine beaches and warm breezes scented with wild lavender and rosemary. Its main city is Split, whose inhabitants have a reputation for being cosmopolitan, hedonistic and chic.

Where it’s wallet-friendly: Sightseeing many of Central Dalmatia’s most enticing spots, including Hvar Town and Diocletian’s Palace in Split, won’t cost you a thing.

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