Skip the price tag, not the experience: Affordable alternatives to Europe’s most expensive cities

Let’s be honest—these days, a lot of us are watching the headlines and wondering what the future holds. Political shifts, financial uncertainty... it’s enough to make you pause before hitting “book now” on that big European trip. But if you’ve been dreaming of wandering historic streets, savoring incredible food, and getting a taste of the continent’s culture without torching your budget, I’ve got good news: you can still go. You just have to be smart about where.

Here’s the good news: for every pricey capital or tourist-saturated European hotspot, there’s a nearby city with a similar vibe, authentic charm, and a much friendlier bottom line. Here’s my smart guide to swapping out the expensive with the exceptional (and affordable).

Love Paris? Try Lyon.

Why it works: Lyon is basically Paris’s sophisticated little sister who skipped the drama and got straight to the good stuff: world-class cuisine, elegant architecture, and a riverside lifestyle.

Location I can book for you: Presqu'île (central, scenic, and affordable boutique hotel) or Croix-Rousse for a more bohemian, artsy feel on a budget.

Love Berlin? Try Leipzig.

Why it works: Leipzig has the creative soul of Berlin before Berlin got bougie. It’s artsy, edgy, and has a strong musical history (Bach lived here).

Location I can book for you: Plagwitz is an up-and-coming arts district, while Zentrum-Süd gives you access to the city center without Berlin prices.

Love Barcelona? Try Valencia.

Why it works: Valencia has beaches, Gaudí-style architecture (thanks to Santiago Calatrava), and fewer crowds. It’s sunny, friendly, and walkable.

Location I can book for you: Ruzafa for trendy cafes and nightlife, or El Carmen in the old town for charming, historic stays.

Love Zurich? Try Lucerne.

Why it works: Still in Switzerland, still drop-dead gorgeous, but less “banker money” and more “storybook Swiss.”

Location I can book for you: Old Town area for charm and walkability, or try areas near the train station for convenient budget hotels.

Love Rome? Try Bologna.

Why it works: Bologna serves up ancient ruins, red-tiled roofs, and food that will ruin you for all other Italian cities. And it’s refreshingly under-touristed.

Location I can book for you: The Quadrilatero for food-centric energy, or Borgo Panigale for a quieter, budget-friendly option.

Love London? Try Liverpool.

Why it works: London’s cool, sure—but Liverpool has history, music, and character without the Tube strikes or sticker shock. Think Beatles, bold art, and historic docks—plus a killer pub scene.

Location I can book for you: Georgian Quarter for quiet charm, or Ropewalks for nightlife and food.

Love Dublin? Try Galway.

Why it works: Galway keeps the Irish charm and coastal vibes, but loses the big-city prices. Plus, it’s a gateway to the Wild Atlantic Way.

Location I can book for you: The Latin Quarter (central, cobbled streets) or Salthill for seaside walks and family-friendly prices.

Love Amsterdam? Try Haarlem.

Why it works: Haarlem is just 15 minutes from Amsterdam by train but feels a world away—quaint canals, Dutch charm, and space to breathe.

Location I can book for you: The city center for charm and walkability. It’s cheaper and less touristy than Amsterdam but still close to everything.

Love Oslo? Try Bergen.

Why it works: Oslo is sleek and expensive; Bergen is postcard-perfect with fjords, fish markets, and real Viking vibes—Bergen brings the drama without the Oslo price tag.

Location I can book for you: The Bryggen waterfront or the Nygårdshøyden area for access to museums and budget-friendly hostels.

Love Reykjavik? Try Akureyri.

Why it works: Iceland’s second city is small but mighty, with geothermal baths, stunning fjords, and access to northern wonders: hot springs, waterfalls, whales—and way less expensive. Iceland’s “capital of the north” is compact and packed with natural beauty.

Location I can book for you: The city center is compact and walkable, with plenty of cozy guesthouses and Airbnbs.

Smart travel doesn’t mean cutting corners—it means better value, fewer crowds, and richer experiences. I can help you plan, book, and personalize every step of the journey. When you’re ready to plan your trip, I’m here to help you make it seamless, fun, and tailored to your travel style. Whether you’re dreaming of relaxing with some amazing food, biking along the canals in Haarlem, or adventuring in Iceland, I’ll make sure your vacation is more than just a getaway—it’s a great value and a great experience.