European Budget Breaks

people walking on street between buildings during daytime

Lille

Located near the Belgian border, Lille’s identity is shaped by both French and Flemish influences, which you can see its buildings and also in the food and drink. While it was once known as an industrial hub, and some may say it has retained some of that grittiness, Lille has reinvented itself in recent times. Two universities in Lille have generated a thriving student population and together with a strong art scene, the city has a very bohemian vibe.

Read more about visiting Lille here.

Prague

Prague is a city which has gained a reputation over the years as a party city, popular with stag groups due to its affordability and abundance of cheap Czech beer.

Here are four reasons why Prague is more affordable for tourists than many other European cities.

accommodation options
Prague has everything from budget hostels to mid-range hotels at reasonable prices compared to cities like Paris or London. Even centrally located places can be relatively affordable if booked in advance.
Affordable food and beer
Traditional Czech meals (like goulash or svíčková) are filling and inexpensive.
Beer is famously cheap—sometimes cheaper than bottled water—thanks to the country’s strong brewing culture.
Cheap and efficient public transport
Prague’s trams, metro, and buses are reliable and easy to navigate.
Many free or low-cost attractions
You can enjoy a lot without spending much:
Walking across Charles Bridge
Exploring Old Town Square
Visiting churches and historic streets

Read here for more information about Prague.

Bratislava

Vienna and Bratislava are 90 minutes apart, connected by a ferry trip down the Danube.

Of the two capital cities Bratislava is the more affordable option and there is enough to see on a two day visit.

The city may be compact but it’s steeped in history. The first thing you see when you approach Bratislava by ferry is the gleaming white Bratislava Castle. The castle dates back to the 13th century and an exhibition inside the castle charts its history through the ages.