Europe’s cheapest city break destination where a pint is just £2.41

The title of Europe’s cheapest holiday spot has been unveiled, with a pint in the picturesque historic centre costing a mere £2.41.

Flight Hacks’ experts have compiled a list of the top ten most affordable European getaways, taking into account the average flight costs from any London airport, alongside food and accommodation expenses. Claiming the number one position is Bucharest, Romania, which outshines other well-known economical destinations such as Poland and Turkey.

A day in Bucharest averages at about £215.52, with the city boasting the lowest hotel rates across Europe, averaging at just £86.72, according to the Daily Express.

What’s on offer in Bucharest?

Situated in the southern part of Romania, Bucharest is the country’s capital and is celebrated for its blend of historical charm and contemporary design, a thriving cultural scene, and the impressive Palace of the Parliament. The city, once under the rule of Vlad The Impaler who declared it his capital in 1459, now has a population of approximately 1.83 million, reports the Mirror.

Its early 20th-century buildings have earned it the nickname “Little Paris”.

Tripadvisor’s top recommendation for Bucharest is a visit to the Stavropoleos Monastery. This stunning 18th-century Orthodox Church, constructed in 1724, is one of the oldest in the city and boasts an impressive 4.5 rating, making it a must-see for those interested in history.

One visitor, raving about the church on Tripadvisor, described it as “beautiful” in a glowing 5-star review. They wrote: “What I loved most was the quiet and cosy atmosphere of the place, even if this architectural beauty is located in the middle of Bucharest, in the most crowded place.”

Another enthused: “One of my favourite places in Bucharest! Amazing monastery is full of peace and harmony. I recommend visiting it Saturday and Sunday at 6pm and to listen to the prayers.”

Meanwhile, a third shared their awe: “Standing inside this monastery, takes your breath away. The walls and high ceilings adorned with beautiful religious artwork, it hard to put to words just how beautiful it really is.”

The Palace of Parliament is also a major draw for tourists. As the second-largest building in the world, the Old Town that envelops this colossal edifice brims with bars and eateries offering authentic Romanian dishes.

The nightlife is equally impressive; a pint can cost as little as £2.41, based on figures from Numbeo. For those seeking luxury, there’s no shortage of top-rated venues like Player Club, Shoteria, and Club Revenge.

How to reach Bucharest

Cities such as London, Birmingham, and Glasgow have direct flights to Romania courtesy of budget carriers including Ryanair, BA, easyJet, and Wizz Air. Kayak notes that the journey from London clocks in at just over three hours.

When’s the prime time to visit Bucharest

The prime months for a trip to Bucharest are April, May, June, September and October. These periods enable the visitors to evade extreme summer heat as well as the severe cold during winter that extensively impact public transportation.

Also, noted tourist sites might shut down due to unpredictable weather conditions, especially when nightfall tends to occur around 4pm.

Top 10 budget-friendly European destinations to visit (average cost per day):

1. Bucharest, Romania – £215.52.
2. Krakow, Poland – £216.45.
3. Seville, Spain – £219.05.
4. Prague, Czech Republic – £219.86.
5. Warsaw, Poland – £220.70.
6. Istanbul, Turkiye – £234.80.
7. Riga, Latvia – £242.16.
8. Frankfurt, Germany – £250.37.
9. Porto, Portugal – £256.88.
10. Valencia, Spain – £262.34.

Expanding on this, Flight Hacks’ CEO, Immanuel Debeer stated, “Going on holiday in Europe doesn’t need to cost an eye-watering amount of money. This study demonstrates that by exploring various travel sites and researching the cost of living in certain cities, you can visit some of the most beautiful and culturally rich areas Europe has to offer without breaking the bank.”