🌍 10 Affordable European Destinations Indians Can Explore in 2026 #BudgetTravel #EuropeOnABudget

Dreaming of Europe but worried about expenses? The good news is that exploring Europe doesn’t have to drain your savings. For Indian travellers, there are plenty of destinations where culture, history, and natural beauty can be enjoyed without overspending. From Eastern Europe’s hidden gems to Mediterranean escapes, here are 10 budget-friendly destinations to explore in 2026.

1. Tbilisi, Georgia #VisaFree #HiddenGem

Georgia’s capital is a visual delight with cobbled streets, colourful balconies, and a mix of old and new architecture. Indians can travel visa-free for up to a year, making it even more appealing. Explore the Old Town, relax in sulphur baths, and enjoy Georgian wine by the Mtkvari River—all at pocket-friendly prices.

2. Budapest, Hungary #ThermalBaths #DanubeCruise

Budapest blends grand architecture, thermal baths, and vibrant nightlife at affordable rates. With a Schengen visa, Indian travellers can enjoy low daily expenses, street food, and budget stays. Don’t miss the Parliament building, Chain Bridge, or a Danube river cruise.

3. Albania (Tirana & Sarandë) #MediterraneanCharm #BudgetBeaches

The Albanian Riviera offers turquoise waters and pristine beaches at a fraction of Greece or Italy’s cost. Indians with valid US, UK, or Schengen visas can enter visa-free. From lively Tirana to laid-back Sarandë, Albania is a Mediterranean gem with very low expenses.

4. Belgrade, Serbia #Nightlife #VisaFreeTravel

Known for its buzzing nightlife, riverside cafés, and historic fortresses, Belgrade is a lively yet affordable destination. Indians can enter visa-free, making it perfect for spontaneous trips. Enjoy Balkan cuisine and explore Kalemegdan Fortress without overspending.

5. Prague, Czech Republic #CityOfSpires #FairyTaleEurope

Prague’s gothic architecture, cobbled lanes, and old town squares make it a fairy-tale destination. With a Schengen visa, Indian travellers can enjoy hostels, inexpensive meals, and free walking tours. Bonus: Czech beer is famously cheaper than water.

6. Romania (Bucharest & Transylvania) #DraculaCastle #BudgetEurope

Romania offers medieval towns, scenic mountains, and vibrant nightlife at low costs. Indians need a Schengen or Romanian visa. From Dracula’s castles in Transylvania to Bucharest’s charm, Romania is rich in affordable activities and authentic dining.

7. Bulgaria (Sofia & Plovdiv) #CulturalEscape #LowCostTravel

Bulgaria is perfect for travellers seeking culture and nature on a budget. With a Schengen or Bulgarian visa, Indians can explore Sofia’s churches and Plovdiv’s Roman ruins. Accommodation and food are among the cheapest in Europe.

8. Montenegro (Kotor & Budva) #AdriaticBeauty #VisaFreeEntry

Montenegro is small but stunning, with fjords, medieval towns, and Adriatic beaches. Indians with valid Schengen, UK, or US visas can enter visa-free. Kotor’s bay and Budva’s lively beach strip offer affordable sun and culture.

9. Vilnius, Lithuania #BaroqueCharm #CafeCulture

Lithuania’s capital is a budget-friendly escape with charming old towns, baroque architecture, and thriving cafés. With a Schengen visa, Indians can enjoy low-cost stays, food, and transport—ideal for longer trips.

10. Kraków, Poland #MedievalCharm #BudgetFriendly

Kraków combines medieval charm with modern vibrancy. With a Schengen visa, Indians can explore the Old Town, Wawel Castle, and Auschwitz-Birkenau memorial—all at affordable rates. Accommodation and food remain budget-friendly.