These Are The 10 Cheapest Countries to Fly to in Europe

Two things decide what a trip to Europe costs an American traveler: whether a low-cost airline still flies the route nonstop, and what your money buys once you land. In 2026 those two things point at different countries. Spain, Greece, Italy and the UK are the four countries with scheduled low-cost nonstop service from the US. Bulgaria, Romania, Poland, Hungary, Latvia and the Czech Republic are where a dollar goes furthest once you arrive – but you will be connecting to get there.

That split is new, and it narrowed this year. Norse Atlantic Airways cut its network to three European gateways for summer 2026: Athens, London Gatwick and Rome Fiumicino. It dropped Berlin, Oslo, Paris and its Gatwick-Miami route. PLAY, the Icelandic budget carrier that fed cheap one-stop itineraries from Reykjavik into Northern and Eastern Europe, stopped flying to North America in October 2025. Spain is the exception that held up: LEVEL, the low-cost long-haul brand owned by British Airways and Iberia’s parent company, still flies Barcelona to New York and Miami year-round, though it is dropping Barcelona-Boston and Barcelona-Los Angeles from 25 October 2026.

Which European countries are actually cheapest to fly to?

The table below sets the ten countries in this guide against the three facts that move a trip budget: whether a low-cost airline flies there nonstop from the US, which currency you will be spending, and whether the country is inside the Schengen area. Currency matters more than travelers expect – four of these ten still run their own currency, and one of them switched this year.

What changed for 2026, and why it matters

Three changes since this guide was first written affect what you pay and what you need at the border.

• The cheap Iceland connection is gone. PLAY confirmed in June 2025 that it would end all North America flying by October that year. It had operated Reykjavik Keflavik to Baltimore/Washington, Boston Logan and New York Stewart, feeding onward European routes. Icelandair still flies to Boston, Chicago, Denver, Minneapolis, New York, Orlando, Seattle and Washington DC, so Reykjavik remains a connecting option – just not a budget-carrier one.
• Norse Atlantic shrank to six routes. From summer 2026 it flies Athens to JFK, London Gatwick to JFK, Los Angeles and Orlando, and Rome Fiumicino to JFK and Los Angeles. Berlin-JFK, Oslo-JFK, Paris CDG to JFK and Los Angeles, and Gatwick-Miami were all cut.
• Bulgaria is on the euro. It adopted the currency on 1 January 2026 as the 21st euro country. The lev stayed legal tender until 31 January 2026 and shops displayed both currencies until August 2026. Older guides that treat Bulgaria as a cheap non-euro outlier are describing a country that no longer exists in that form.

Do you need ETIAS or anything new at the border?

You do not need ETIAS yet. The EU has not set a live date for it, says it will announce one several months in advance, and has built in a six-month transition, so it will not become a condition of boarding before April 2027 at the earliest.

What has already changed is the Entry/Exit System. Since 10 April 2026 it has been running at every external Schengen border, so the first time you enter the Schengen area on a trip you register biometrically – fingerprints and a facial image – instead of collecting a passport stamp. All 29 Schengen countries use it, which covers every country on this list. Ireland and Cyprus are outside it and still stamp passports by hand. Build in extra time at your first arrival airport, particularly at a busy gateway like Athens or Rome in high season.

How this list was put together

These ten countries were selected on three things you can check yourself rather than on a single fare snapshot, which goes stale within days: scheduled low-cost transatlantic service into the country, the local cost of accommodation and food relative to Western Europe, and how far the shoulder season discount runs. Airline route information here reflects published summer 2026 schedules. Fares are not quoted, because a headline fare that is accurate the day it is written is misleading a month later – the routes and the currencies are the durable part.

1. Portugal: Europe’s Atlantic Gem

Recognized for its affordability, Portugal packs a lot into a small country – Moorish castles, Atlantic surf beaches, port lodges and some of the friendliest people in Europe. Discover flight deals that make incredible cities like Lisbon and Porto accessible destinations for a European adventure.

Picking the cheapest country is half the decision. the cheapest times to fly to Europe is the other half, with the prime booking window and the seasons to avoid.

Lisbon: Historical Wonders

Lisbon has affordable accommodations and inexpensive local cuisine awaiting your discovery. Portuguese food is typically light, zesty, and fresh, with punches of rich flavor!

Wander through the Alfama district, with its cobbled streets leading to the historic Castelo de Sao Jorge. Breathe in centuries-old tales etched into the cityscape as you find yourself in a place that feels like it’s yet to be discovered.

Porto: Port Wine and Scenery

Porto’s allure lies not only in its world-famous Port wine but also in its budget-friendly nature. Delight in the Douro Valley views, savor tastings at renowned Port cellars, or traverse the Dom Luis I Bridge, all without burdening your wallet.

Porto ensures your visit is as economical as it is memorable, and it stays on our list of places worth travelling to. The saving in Portugal is on the ground rather than in the airfare: TAP Air Portugal keeps nonstop US service into Lisbon and Porto, but none of it is low-cost transatlantic flying. Porto is also served heavily from other European cities by budget carriers, which makes it a cheap second stop if you fly into Spain or the UK first.

2. Spain: Diverse Cultures and Rolling Landscapes

In Spain, your travel experience combines tons of affordable flying options with a cornucopia of cultural and scenic attractions and world-famous beaches. From the bustling streets of Barcelona to the artistic heart of Madrid, there’s a slice of Spain for every taste and budget.

Barcelona: Catalan City Life

The Catalonian capital, Barcelona, greets you with its beautiful street life and iconic architecture. Navigating this cosmopolitan city is convenient and budget-friendly, especially with public transportation.

Attractions such as the Sagrada Familia and Park Guell, both masterpieces by architect Antoni Gaudi, offer a feast for your eyes without straining your wallet. The catch in Barcelona is that it is one of the most visited cities in Europe, so the savings come from timing rather than from the city being cheap: book Sagrada Familia and Park Guell entry slots well ahead, and come outside July and August.

Madrid: Artistic and Cultural Hub

Madrid serves as Spain’s cultural soul, boasting prestigious art museums like the Prado and Reina Sofia. Delving into Madrid doesn’t have to be costly; you can uncover free entry hours at museums and savor traditional Spanish cuisine at local markets.

Madrid a prime destination for culture aficionados on a budget. It’s easy to access through a variety of low cost carrier airlines that operate within Europe.

Ibiza: Mediterranean Madness

Ibiza is the other exception on this page. Club nights and peak-summer room rates put it well above the Spanish mainland, so treat it as a splurge rather than a budget stop – it earns its place among Europe’s best party cities, not among its cheapest. If you want the island without the July and August prices, come in May or October, when the clubs are opening or closing their seasons.

For culture vultures, check out the Castle of Ibiza, the Catedral de Santa Maria de la Neu de Villa d’Eivissa, the Sa Punta Galera, and the ramparts around the Dalt Villa. Or just soak in the sun at one of the countless beaches.

See Related: Traveling From Spain To Morocco: Everything You Need To Know

3. Greece: Ancient Ruins and Balmy Beaches

Greece offers a blend of historical splendor and scenic beauty like no other. Traveling here allows you to explore ancient ruins and relax on pristine beaches, all within a tight budget.

Athens: Gateway to Antiquity

In Athens, the cradle of Western civilization, you’re greeted by iconic sites like the Acropolis. Affordable flights to Athens International Airport act as your launchpad to this storied city.

The rich history and culture here come surprisingly cheaply, giving you a value-filled experience steeped in antiquity. You’ll feel like you’re walking back through time as you explore these storied streets.

Santorini: Picturesque Island Getaway

Santorini beckons with its jaw-dropping cliff-side ocean views and sunsets that ignite the sky. Beyond its caldera, the island’s renowned beaches and the crystal-clear Mediterranean waters invite you for a swim.

Be honest with yourself about Santorini, though. Along with Mykonos it is the costliest place to sleep in Greece in July and August, and it is the one entry on this page that works against the budget premise. If the budget is the point, fly into Athens and take a ferry to one of the quieter Greek islands such as Naxos or Paros, or come to Santorini in April, May, October or early November, when room rates fall sharply and the caldera walk is bearable in daylight.

You can find some seriously cheap villas and flats here. To get the best deal, visit in the shoulder seasons or in the off-season. You’ll be surprised at what you find off-peak!

See Related: Best Greek Party Islands to Go Wild!

4. Bulgaria: Eastern Europe’s Hidden Treasure

Bulgaria offers a remarkable mix of culture and affordable travel options, and it is still among the cheapest countries in the European Union for food, transport and a hotel room. One thing has changed: since 1 January 2026 Bulgaria uses the euro, not the lev. Prices converted at a fixed rate rather than jumping overnight, but it does mean you no longer need to change money separately if you are also visiting Greece, Croatia or another euro country on the same trip.

Sofia: History Meets Modernity

When you visit Sofia, Bulgaria’s capital, you’ll discover a city of centuries-old churches alongside modern-day architecture. Not only can you immerse yourself in rich history, but you can also enjoy it all without straining your wallet.

Sofia is well-known for its reasonable prices, especially regarding accommodations and nights out. Enjoy a quiet trip or head out to the bars. You can shape your trip to Sofia and Bulgaria in a million different ways.

The Black Sea Coast: Summer Fun

Summer adventure awaits on Bulgaria’s Black Sea coast, a unique, budget-friendly beach destination. From the fun-filled sands of Sunny Beach to the more tranquil town of Sozopol, you’ll find that your money goes far here, affording more sun, sea, and relaxation on a budget.

5. Hungary: Thermal Baths and Ruin Bars

Hungary presents an affordable European getaway where you can soak in thermal baths and explore rich historical sites without stretching your budget. The best of Hungarian culture can be sampled in Budapest.

Budapest: The City of Spas

In Budapest, you’re in the heart of Hungary’s spa culture, a testament to the nation’s historical affinity towards thermal baths. Here, the Szechenyi Baths and Gellert Baths are must-visit destinations woven into the fabric of local life, where architecture and history converge.

With this bathing legacy dating back to the Turkish conquest, you’ll find a dip as rejuvenating as it is culturally enriching! Prices are generally wallet-friendly, with great food being easy to find for pennies.

You can enjoy a great night out on the cheap at one of the city’s many “ruin bars.” Accommodation is also famously cheap, especially in the off-peak seasons.

6. Romania: Counts, Castles and Carpathians

In Romania, lovers of history and nature can find a less than traveled destination like no other. So get ready for a cost-effective cruise among the Carpathians and revel in Romania’s gorgeous scenery and unique history without straining your wallet.

Transylvania: Myths and Mountains

Transylvania beckons with its moss-covered castles and folklore-laden villages. You can find Bran Castle here, sitting atop a rock.

Associated with tales of Count Dracula, its locale totally helps feed the legend. Explore this gothic masterpiece, along with the picturesque rural landscapes which also belong in fairytales – all on a thrifty budget.

See Related: Best Cities In Eastern Europe For A Memorable Vacation

7. Latvia: Baltic Beauty on a Budget

Latvia is the cheapest of the three Baltic states for a visitor, and almost all of what draws people there sits in Riga, a compact capital you can cross on foot. It stays overlooked by American travelers and well worth checking out.

Riga: Uncover Art Nouveau Treasures

Riga feels a lot richer than it is. The city holds one of the largest concentrations of Art Nouveau architecture in Europe, most of it in the blocks around Alberta iela, and walking that district costs nothing.

Latvia uses the euro, so there is no separate currency to change if the rest of your trip is in the eurozone. Explore the Old Town on foot and climb the tower at St. Peter’s Church for the panoramic view over the rooftops – check the current admission price and opening hours on the church’s own site before you go, as both change by season.

8. Poland: Storied Cities and Glorious Scenery

We can’t forget Poland. It is a big country that provides an enriching travel experience. It’s home to an illustrious history, lush countryside, world-famous attractions, and friendly people, all at an affordable price point. Poland’s resilient past makes it a captivating destination for budget-conscious travelers.

Krakow: Old World Charm

In Krakow, you can step back in time as you stroll through the Main Market Square, one of the largest medieval town squares in Europe. The affordable cost of living allows you to find decent lodgings and eat well to enjoy the historic sites, like Wawel Castle and the Cloth Hall, without stretching your budget.

Warsaw: The Resilient Capital

Warsaw, the Polish capital, is a phoenix rising from the ashes of war. It juxtaposes Soviet modernity, post-Pact architecture, and stirring history.

Your exploration can be rich yet economical, from the elegant streets of the Royal Route to the evocative Warsaw Uprising Museum and the ruins of the Warsaw Ghetto. The city’s extensive parks provide a natural escape within the urban landscape.

See Related: Warsaw vs Krakow? Which One Should You Visit?

9. Czech Republic: Bohemian Rhapsody

Your journey to the Czech Republic merges rich history with culture amidst an affordable European escape. It’s a symphony of experiences for those yearning to explore Central Europe without straining their wallets.

Prague: City of a Hundred Spires

Discover Prague, where countless Gothic and Baroque spires pierce the sky. Prague is captivated by its blend of history and modern urban life, making every moment here a trip to remember.

It’s hard to describe how beautiful this historic city is – walking anywhere feels like you should pay for it. Stroll along the iconic Charles Bridge to the Old Square, marvel at the 14th-century astronomical clock, and you’ll see what I mean.

See Related: Three Days in Prague Itinerary

10. Croatia: Adriatic Delight

Your journey to Croatia offers an affordable passage to some of Europe’s most stunning beaches and historic coastal cities. Embrace the blend of crystal-clear waters and rich history.

Dubrovnik: Dazzling Coastal City

Affordable flights to Dubrovnik lead you to a wealth of medieval history. Surrounded by imposing stone walls, your travel budget stretches further as you explore the shimmering Adriatic Sea.

Walk the streets of “King’s Landing” from Game of Thrones! Or you can be less of a nerd and discover Banje Beach for a sun-soaked afternoon.

Split: An Ancient Retreat

Split presents a mix of modern life and beach bumming amidst ancient Roman architecture. Spending a few days in this relative paradise without a mint is easy.

Relax on Bacvice Beach, where Split plays its endless games of picigin, or have your mind blown by the sheer size of Diocletian’s Palace. Split’s also a gateway to island hopping on a budget.

Related Resources

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