A weekend in New York City could mean a nice dinner out, some late night drinks, a taxi ride home, and next thing you know you are debt. It feels like you are debt with all the money you just spent.
New York City is one of the most exciting cities in the world, but it’s also one of the most expensive. A weekend in Manhattan can quickly add up between hotel stays, meals, transportation, and entertainment. For the same amount, or even less, you could fly across the Atlantic and enjoy several days in a beautiful European city like Prague. These destinations not only offer a lower cost of living but also a richness in history, culture, and food that often makes them feel more indulgent than New York.
Traveling to Europe may sound like a splurge, but the reality is surprising. Flights are often cheaper than expected, especially during shoulder seasons, and once you arrive, daily expenses are far lower than what you’d pay in New York. From charming cobblestone streets to hearty local cuisine, these cities prove that luxury doesn’t have to come with a luxury price tag. Instead of paying hundreds for a cramped hotel room in Manhattan, you could be sipping wine in a centuries-old square or exploring world-class museums for a fraction of the cost.
If you’re looking for value, adventure, and a chance to stretch your travel budget further, these European gems are proof that sometimes it’s cheaper to go big than to stay home. Here are eight cities where you can enjoy a full weekend—or even longer, without breaking the bank.
Budapest, Hungary
Budapest is one of Europe’s most underrated capitals, and it delivers a five-star experience at budget prices. It is a city full of culture, cool thermal baths, great food especially the goulash, and you can find some great places to stay for cheap.
Known for its dramatic architecture, lively ruin pubs, and iconic thermal baths, the city offers endless activities without straining your wallet. Hotels and guesthouses are affordable, with stylish boutique stays costing less than a budget hotel in Manhattan. Public transportation is efficient and cheap, and dining out is surprisingly low-cost. A hearty bowl of goulash or a plate of chicken paprikash in a traditional restaurant might set you back less than a coffee in New York, and street food like lángos is both delicious and filling for just a couple of dollars.
The city’s free and low-cost attractions make it even easier to enjoy on a budget. Walking along the Danube to see the Parliament building lit up at night is unforgettable and costs nothing. A ticket to the famous thermal baths is usually under $20, giving you hours of relaxation for less than the price of an average brunch in NYC. Add in vibrant nightlife, markets, and free walking tours, and you quickly realize that Budapest isn’t just cheaper than New York, it’s more rewarding for the price.
Prague, Czech Republic
Prague is often called the “City of a Hundred Spires,” and its fairytale skyline is just the beginning of what makes it so magical. Despite its growing popularity, the city remains one of Europe’s most affordable capitals. Hotels and Airbnbs in the historic center are surprisingly inexpensive, and hearty Czech meals, think roast pork, dumplings, and beer are available at prices that feel unreal compared to New York. In fact, Prague is famous for having some of the cheapest beer in the world, often costing less than bottled water. That alone makes it a fun and affordable city for travelers who love a vibrant social scene. This beer is not cheap as in tastes like Natty light cheap. It is good beer with a two dollar price tag.
What makes Prague even more budget-friendly are the number of free or nearly free experiences. Exploring Old Town Square, watching the Astronomical Clock strike the hour, or crossing Charles Bridge at sunrise doesn’t cost a dime but creates memories that feel priceless. Museums, galleries, and concerts are also far more affordable than their New York equivalents, with tickets often under $10. The blend of culture, affordability, and charm makes Prague an unbeatable alternative to a pricey weekend in Manhattan.
Lisbon, Portugal
Lisbon combines sunshine, history, and affordability in a way that few other European capitals can. The city’s pastel-colored houses, vintage trams, and scenic viewpoints create an atmosphere that feels both romantic and lively. Yet it’s the prices that really impress travelers coming from New York. Accommodation is widely available at reasonable rates, from cozy guesthouses to stylish boutique hotels. Dining is equally budget-friendly: a full seafood dinner with wine might cost less than a quick lunch in Manhattan, and iconic Portuguese pastries like pastéis de nata are typically just a euro each.
Entertainment and experiences also come at a fraction of New York’s prices. A ride on the iconic Tram 28 costs only a couple of dollars and doubles as a sightseeing tour of the city. Entry fees for castles, monasteries, and museums are low, and many viewpoints around Lisbon are completely free. Add in affordable day trips to Sintra or Cascais, and Lisbon becomes not just a cheaper option than New York, but also one of the most memorable.
Kraków, Poland
Kraków is a historic city that feels like stepping into a medieval storybook, but with prices that are refreshingly down-to-earth. Its Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site, full of cobbled streets, Gothic churches, and lively squares. Hotels and hostels are far more affordable than in Western Europe, and a generous Polish meal, like pierogi or bigos, costs just a few dollars. Even in the city’s best restaurants, you’ll find that a full dinner for two with drinks might not equal the price of one cocktail in Manhattan.
Beyond food and lodging, Kraków’s attractions are budget-friendly and deeply rewarding. The Wawel Castle complex is affordable to visit, and strolling around Main Market Square is entirely free. Day trips to sites like Auschwitz or the Wieliczka Salt Mine are reasonably priced, offering profound cultural and historical experiences that feel invaluable. Kraków delivers history, culture, and charm at a cost that makes New York seem wildly overpriced in comparison.
Porto, Portugal
Smaller and more relaxed than Lisbon, Porto is a city full of charm and character, with prices that make it a perfect destination for budget-conscious travelers. Known for its colorful riverfront, stunning bridges, and, of course, Port wine, Porto offers experiences that feel luxurious but come at modest prices. Guesthouses and hotels are very affordable, especially compared to New York, and meals are similarly wallet-friendly. For just a few euros, you can enjoy a francesinha sandwich, a hearty Porto specialty, or a glass of world-famous Port wine.
The beauty of Porto is that many of its best attractions are free or very inexpensive. Wandering the Ribeira district, watching the sunset over the Douro River, or exploring centuries-old churches doesn’t cost much but creates lasting memories. Boat tours along the Douro are affordable, and many wine cellars offer inexpensive tastings. Porto proves that you don’t need a big budget to enjoy a rich and fulfilling European experience.
Sofia, Bulgaria
Sofia is one of Europe’s best-kept secrets when it comes to affordability. As Bulgaria’s capital, it blends Roman ruins, Ottoman mosques, and Soviet architecture into one fascinating cityscape. Yet what stands out most for travelers is just how inexpensive everything is compared to Western Europe or New York. Accommodation is extremely affordable, and eating out feels like a treat that barely dents your wallet. From shopska salad to grilled meats and pastries, Bulgarian food is hearty, tasty, and cheap.
What makes Sofia even more appealing are its low-cost activities and close proximity to nature. The city itself is full of free attractions, like Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, and affordable museums and galleries. Just outside the city, Vitosha Mountain offers hiking trails with stunning views, often accessible by public transport. Sofia provides culture, history, and outdoor adventure all at a fraction of New York’s costs, making it one of the most budget-friendly capitals in Europe.
Valencia, Spain
Valencia often lives in the shadow of Barcelona and Madrid, but it’s a gem in its own right, especially when it comes to value for money. The city offers golden beaches, futuristic architecture, and a lively culinary scene without the hefty price tag of Spain’s bigger cities. Accommodation is much cheaper, and dining is a highlight: this is the birthplace of paella, and enjoying an authentic dish here costs a fraction of what a fancy dinner in New York would. Tapas bars and markets like Mercado Central provide endless affordable food experiences.
Valencia is also packed with affordable or free attractions. Exploring the old town, relaxing in the lush Turia Gardens, or cycling to the beach costs next to nothing. Even major attractions like the City of Arts and Sciences are reasonably priced compared to entertainment options in New York. Add in sunny weather and a slower pace of life, and Valencia easily outshines a weekend in Manhattan.
Athens, Greece
Athens is a city where ancient history meets vibrant modern life, and it’s far more affordable than New York. Hotels near the Acropolis are much cheaper than you’d expect, and traditional Greek meals—think souvlaki, moussaka, and fresh seafood—are both delicious and inexpensive. Street food like gyros and koulouri can be enjoyed for just a couple of euros, meaning you can eat well all weekend without overspending.
The city’s main attractions are also incredibly budget-friendly. The Acropolis and its museum, two of the most important cultural sites in the world, cost far less to visit than most New York museums. Neighborhoods like Plaka and Monastiraki are free to explore, offering charming streets, lively markets, and beautiful views. Athens combines history, affordability, and vibrancy, making it one of the best-value cities in Europe.