Bucharest has ranked second among the most affordable European destinations for an urban getaway in September, according to an analysis conducted by British travel agency Thomas Cook. With an estimated average daily cost of €66 per person, Romania’s capital offers a competitive value for money, surpassed across the continent exclusively by Tirana.
The study evaluated over 50 European destinations, taking into account the costs for a one-night stay at a three-star hotel, a meal, a coffee, public transportation, and access to tourist attractions, establishing a list of 13 cities with daily budgets under €100. In Bucharest, dinner costs an average of just over €12, while a daily surface public transport pass is €1.50. Tirana ranks first (€59/day, with €32 for accommodation, €8.50 for dinner, and €1.50 for a local beer). Amid rising long-haul flight prices, Eastern Europe and Turkey dominate the affordability rankings: Antalya and Warsaw share third place (€78/day), followed by Istanbul (€82/day), Muğla and Kraków (€87/day), Vilnius and Frankfurt (€90/day), Lyon (€91/day), Tallinn (€93/day), Heraklion (€99/day), and Porto (€100/day).
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Bucharest one of Europe’s most affordable city break destinations?
Bucharest offers an average daily cost of around €66 per person, which covers three-star accommodation, dinner averaging just over €12, and a daily surface public transport pass for €1.50.
Which European city ranked first in the affordability study?
Tirana, Albania, secured the top spot with an estimated average daily budget of €59 per person.
Which other European cities offer daily travel budgets under €100?
Other accessible destinations include Antalya, Warsaw, Istanbul, Muğla, Kraków, Vilnius, Frankfurt, Lyon, Tallinn, Heraklion, and Porto.