Travelling with family doesn’t have to be expensive. Europe offers a wide range of budget-friendly family travel destinations. Here are the best cheap family travel destinations in Europe.
1. Lisbon, Portugal
From its rich history to its beautiful buildings and friendly people, Lisbon offers something to suit all tastes. The city’s public transport is both convenient and inexpensive, making it easy to explore.
Top Family Activities:
- Ride Tram 28 through the city’s historic neighbourhoods.
- Visit Oceanário de Lisboa, one of the largest indoor aquariums in Europe.
- Explore the historic Belem Tower and Jerónimos Monastery.
- Take a day trip to Sintra to explore its palaces and castles.
- Enjoy a picnic at Eduardo VII Park.
Local Cuisine:
- Bacalhau à brás (codfish with potatoes and eggs).
- Pastéis de nata (custard tarts).
- Bifana (pork sandwich).
- Caldo verde (kale soup).
- Sardinhas assadas (grilled sardines).
2. Budapest, Hungary
Budapest offers a wealth of family-friendly activities at a fraction of the cost of other European capitals. The city is famous for its stunning architecture, thermal baths, and kid-friendly attractions.
Top Family Activities:
- Explore Buda Castle and its historical exhibits.
- Enjoy a day at the Budapest Zoo & Botanical Garden.
- Relax at the Széchenyi Thermal Bath with family pools.
- Take a scenic cruise on the Danube River.
- Explore outdoor markets like the Great Market Hall for affordable food.
- Use the Budapest Card for discounts on attractions and free public transport.
Local Cuisine:
- Goulash (hearty meat and vegetable stew).
- Lángos (fried dough with various toppings).
- Kürtőskalács (chimney cake).
- Pörkölt (meat stew similar to goulash).
- Dobos torte (layered sponge cake with chocolate buttercream).
Explore the city with our Budapest travel guide.
3. Krakow, Poland
Krakow is not only rich in history and culture but also offers numerous activities that are perfect for families. It’s an affordable destination where you can immerse yourself in a medieval atmosphere.
Top Family Activities:
- Visit Wawel Castle and its dragon’s den.
- Explore the Wieliczka Salt Mine with its underground chapels and sculptures.
- Stroll around the Main Market Square and watch the trumpeter from St. Mary’s Basilica.
- Enjoy the exhibits at the Krakow Pinball Museum.
- Take a boat ride on the Vistula River.
Local Cuisine:
- Pierogi (dumplings with various fillings).
- Zapiekanka (open-faced sandwich with cheese and mushrooms).
- Oscypek (smoked sheep cheese).
- Bigos (hunter’s stew with meat and cabbage).
- Pączki (Polish doughnuts).
Start planning with our Krakow travel guide.
4. Prague, Czech Republic
Prague is a fairy-tale city that is surprisingly affordable for families. Its cobblestone streets, medieval squares, and impressive castles will captivate both adults and children.
Top Family Activities:
- Discover Prague Castle and its gardens.
- Cruise the Vltava River for a different view of the city.
- Enjoy the exhibits at the Prague Toy Museum.
- Visit the interactive science museum, iQlandia.
- Explore the Prague Zoo, one of the best in Europe.
Local Cuisine:
- Trdelník (pastry coated in sugar and nuts).
- Svíčková (marinated beef with creamy vegetable sauce).
- Knedlíky (dumplings served with meat dishes).
- Guláš (goulash served with bread dumplings).
- Palačinky (Czech pancakes with various fillings).
Make the most of your trip with our Prague travel guide.
5. Athens, Greece
Athens combines ancient history with modern amenities, making it an exciting destination for families. The city is filled with historical landmarks and offers a variety of affordable activities.
Top Family Activities:
- Explore the Acropolis and Parthenon.
- Visit the National Archaeological Museum.
- Enjoy a picnic at the National Gardens.
- Take a day trip to the nearby Saronic Islands.
- Wander through the Plaka district with its shops and cafes.
Local Cuisine:
- Souvlaki (grilled meat skewers).
- Moussaka (layered eggplant and meat dish).
- Baklava (sweet pastry with nuts and honey).
- Tzatziki (yoghurt and cucumber dip).
- Spanakopita (spinach and feta pastry).
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6. Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona is a vibrant city offering a mix of culture, beach fun, and family-friendly activities, all at reasonable prices.
Top Family Activities:
- Visit Park Güell with its colorful mosaics.
- Explore the Magic Fountain of Montjuïc.
- Spend a day at the beach, such as Barceloneta.
- Discover the interactive exhibits at CosmoCaixa Science Museum.
- Wander through the Gothic Quarter.
Local Cuisine:
- Paella (rice dish with seafood or meat).
- Tapas (small dishes with various ingredients).
- Churros (fried dough with hot chocolate).
- Jamón ibérico (Iberian ham).
- Patatas bravas (spicy potatoes).
Explore the city with our Barcelona travel guide.
7. Dubrovnik, Croatia
Dubrovnik is an affordable gem offering stunning views, historical sites, and beautiful beaches. It’s perfect for families looking for adventure and relaxation.
Top Family Activities:
- Walk through the city walls for panoramic views.
- Take a boat trip to Lokrum Island.
- Enjoy the sandy and pebble beaches.
- Visit the Dubrovnik Aquarium and Maritime Museum.
- Explore the historic Rector’s Palace.
Local Cuisine:
- Seafood dishes such as grilled fish and octopus salad.
- Peka (meat and vegetable dish baked under an iron bell).
- Fritule (small fried doughnuts).
- Crni rižot (black risotto with cuttlefish ink).
- Pašticada (marinated beef stew).
Discover the city with our guide to things to do in Dubrovnik.
8. Sofia, Bulgaria
Sofia offers a blend of cultural and outdoor activities at a fraction of the cost of other European capitals. It’s an excellent choice for budget-conscious families.
Top Family Activities:
- Explore the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral.
- Visit Vitosha Mountain for hiking and nature walks.
- Stroll through Borisova Gradina, a large city park.
- Discover the National Museum of History.
- Enjoy interactive exhibits at Muzeiko, a children’s museum.
Local Cuisine:
- Banitsa (pastry filled with cheese).
- Shopska salad (salad with tomatoes, cucumbers, and feta).
- Kebapche (grilled minced meat).
- Tarator (cold cucumber soup).
- Lyutenitsa (spicy vegetable relish).
9. Tallinn, Estonia
Tallinn is a picturesque city that offers a mix of medieval charm and modern amenities. It’s an affordable destination with plenty of activities for families.
Top Family Activities:
- Visit the Tallinn Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Explore the Lennusadam Seaplane Harbour with its interactive exhibits.
- Enjoy a day at Kadriorg Park with its playgrounds and swan ponds.
- Discover the Estonian Open Air Museum with traditional farmhouses and workshops.
- Take a ferry to the nearby islands for nature walks and beach outings.
- Use the Tallinn Card for free entry to many attractions and public transport.
Local Cuisine:
- Black bread (traditional rye bread).
- Kiluvõileib (sprat sandwich).
- Kohuke (curd snack).
- Mulgikapsad (sauerkraut stew).
- Vastlakukkel (cream-filled bun).
10. Valencia, Spain
Valencia is a vibrant and family-friendly city with beautiful beaches, parks, and cultural sites. It’s more affordable than other Spanish cities like Barcelona and Madrid.
Top Family Activities:
- Explore the City of Arts and Sciences with its interactive exhibits and IMAX cinema.
- Visit the Bioparc Valencia, an innovative zoo with natural habitats.
- Relax at Malvarrosa Beach with its wide sandy shores.
- Stroll through Turia Gardens, a park built in a former riverbed.
- Discover the historic Silk Exchange (La Lonja de la Seda).
Local Cuisine:
- Paella (rice dish with seafood or meat).
- Horchata (drink made from tiger nuts).
- Fartons (pastry typically enjoyed with horchata).
- All i pebre (eel stew).
- Buñuelos (fried dough balls).
Make the most of your trip with our Valencia travel guide.
Budget Travel Tips for Families
Travelling on a budget with family requires careful planning and smart choices. Here are some tips to help you save money while ensuring a memorable trip:
- Utilise budget travel tips for cost-effective planning.
- Check out free activities for kids for family-friendly fun.
- Look after affordable family dining options with good reviews.
- Learn how to travel smart with public transport for family travel.
- Use savings on family vacation packages to maximise your budget.
- Opt for budget family camping options, if it is possible.
Travelling in Europe doesn’t have to be expensive. By choosing affordable destinations and following budget-friendly travel tips, you can create lasting memories without straining your finances. Whether it’s the historic streets of Lisbon or the fairy-tale charm of Prague, these destinations offer fun, culture, and affordability for the whole family.
Looking for more travel tips? Check out our articles.
