Affordable Destinations for Budget Travelers: Exploring 5 Eastern European Locations
- Alanna Gabbett
- Nov 24, 2024
- 5 min read
Updated: Apr 3
Traveling with your family can often feel daunting with all the expenses involved, from flights to food. However, Eastern Europe stands out as a treasure trove of budget-friendly destinations. These countries offer rich history, vibrant culture, and plenty of fun activities for kids without breaking the bank.
If you’re seeking affordable places to explore together, consider adding these countries to your bucket list!
In This Guide:
Make sure to Bookmark our budget traveling guide to read later:
Bosnia and Herzegovina
Often overlooked by travelers, Bosnia and Herzegovina is a gem filled with stunning countryside, historical sites, and warm hospitality—perfect for families on a budget.
Popular Things to Do
Discover the charm of Sarajevo by exploring Baščaršija, the historic marketplace, where you can browse local crafts and taste delicious traditional foods like ćevapi. For families who enjoy outdoor adventures, Sutjeska National Park boasts breathtaking landscapes, with ample hiking trails suitable for all ages. You might even spot wild animals or enjoy a picnic by the river.
Other places to visit:
Mostar
Kravica Waterfalls
Medjugorje
Una National Park
Banja Luka
Jajce
Costs
Food: Meals in local restaurants typically cost between $5 and $10. A family of four can expect to spend about $40–$50 on groceries each week.
Accommodation: Family-friendly hotels and guesthouses charge around $30 to $60 per night, offering comfortable stays that won’t strain your budget.
We have personally stayed in 1-2-bedroom apartments right inside the city center for only $20 to $30 per night. We found these apartments on Airbnb.
Activities: Outdoor activities are often free or low-cost, making it easy to fill your days with enjoyable experiences without overspending.
Check out some of our videos from Bosnia & Herzegovina:
Albania
With stunning beaches and a rich cultural tapestry, Albania has become a sought-after destination for families seeking affordability.
Popular Things to Do
Families can visit Butrint, an ancient city and UNESCO World Heritage site, to explore its incredible ruins. The Albanian Riviera also has beautiful beaches where kids can play and parents can relax. In Tirana, the capital city, you'll find engaging parks like the Grand Park, which features playgrounds and open spaces, perfect for a family picnic.
Other places to visit:
Shkoder
Shala River and Komani Lake
Kruja
Berat
Gjirokaster
Apollonia
Blue Eye National Park
Durres
Sarande
Vlore
Dhermi
Costs
Food: Enjoy affordable meals at local restaurants, with costs ranging from $5 to $15 for a family. Groceries are budget-friendly too, allowing a family of four to spend about $30 weekly.
Accommodation: Budget accommodations like hotels and hostels range from $25 to $50 per night, making family travel easier on your wallet. In most 1–2-bedroom Airbnb's, you will pay around $25 to $35 nightly to be in or near the city center in most places.
Activities: Many cultural sites and natural attractions have low entry fees, ensuring you can explore without financial worry.
Check out our Albania video series below:
Kosovo
Known for its vibrant culture and striking landscapes, Kosovo is a fantastic choice for families eager to explore while keeping costs low.
Popular Things to Do
In Pristina, the capital, you can visit the Newborn Monument and the unique National Library. For nature lovers, Rugova Canyon offers breathtaking hiking trails suited for families. A trip to the historical town of Gjakova can provide insights into local traditions, perfect for curious minds.
Other places to visit:
Prizren
Peja
Lake Leqinat and Leqinat Village
Bear Sanctuary Pristina
Costs
Food: Dining out typically costs between $5 and $10 for a family meal, while a week's worth of groceries is about $40.
Accommodation: Family-friendly options are available for around $30 to $70 a night, ensuring a comfortable stay for everyone. A typical 1–2-bedroom Airbnb costs between $30 and $40 per night.
Activities: Many museums have low entry fees, and exploring Kosovo’s national parks is often free, enhancing a budget-friendly travel experience.
Videos from Kosovo coming soon. Subscribe to our YouTube Channel to get notified!
Bulgaria
Bulgaria presents a unique combination of rich history and beautiful nature tailored for family explorations.
Popular Things to Do
Families can visit Sofia to see historical landmarks, including the stunning Alexander Nevsky Cathedral. For beach lovers, the Black Sea coast is inviting during summer months, while the ski resorts in Bansko are perfect for winter fun, making it easy for families to choose the right season for their trip.
Other places to visit:
Veliko Tarnovo
Plovdiv
Belogradchik
Varna
Burgas
Costs
Food: Eating out starts as low as $6 to $15 for a family meal, and grocery prices usually average around $30 to $50 per week.
Accommodation: You can find affordable stays anywhere from $25 to $60 per night across Bulgaria. A typical 1–2-bedroom apartment on Airbnb will cost $40 to $50 per night.
Activities: With many natural attractions and museums charging little to no entry fees, Bulgaria makes family vacations both enjoyable and affordable.
Videos from Bulgaria coming soon. Subscribe to our YouTube Channel to get notified!
Georgia
Georgia is becoming increasingly popular for its delightful food, deep heritage, and affordable family activities.
Popular Things to Do
In Tbilisi, explore the charming Old Town, with its colorful buildings and intriguing street art. Families can take day trips to Kazbegi to admire breathtaking mountain views or visit the Black Sea coast at Batumi, known for its amusement parks and beaches.
Other places to visit:
Kutaisi
Batumi
Stepantsminda
Svaneti
Kakheti
Costs
Food: Dining is quite affordable, costing between $5 and $15 for a family meal. A week's grocery bill is around $40.
Accommodation: Budget-friendly hotels and guesthouses generally charge between $30 and $70 per night, catering well to family needs.
Activities: Many of Georgia’s natural attractions and cultural sites don’t charge entry fees, making it easy to explore without financial worries.
Embrace Affordable Travel Destinations
Traveling on a budget doesn’t mean sacrificing quality enjoyment. With beautiful landscapes, significant histories, and wallet-friendly prices, Bosnia, Albania, Kosovo, Bulgaria, and Georgia serve as excellent affordable travel destinations for creating unforgettable family moments.
Whether you are hiking in the lush mountains of Kosovo or relaxing on the serene beaches of Albania, these countries ensure memorable experiences for both kids and adults without overspending. Start planning your next family vacation where adventure meets affordability!
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