Why You Should Visit These 8 European Countries – And Why They’re Next on My List

After travelling to almost every country in Europe, I’m down to my final eight: Norway, Sweden, Slovenia, Switzerland, North Macedonia, Montenegro, Moldova, and Greece. Each of these destinations offers something unique, from breathtaking landscapes and fascinating history to vibrant cultures and hidden gems.

I always travel on a budget, so I’ve researched the most affordable ways to visit each of these countries, including flight costs, budget hotels, and the best times to go for cheap travel.

Norway – The Land of Fjords and the Northern Lights

Why Visit?

Norway is famous for its breathtaking fjords, dramatic mountain landscapes, and the chance to see the Northern Lights. While I’ve already seen the aurora in Iceland, I’d love to experience it again in Tromsø or the Lofoten Islands. The Flåm Railway and picturesque cities like Bergen and Oslo are also on my list.

Best Time to Visit for Budget Travel

• Winter (November–March) for Northern Lights and cheaper off-season prices.
• Late spring (April–May) for fewer tourists and more affordable flights.
• Avoid summer (June–August) when prices double due to peak tourism.

Estimated Budget

• Budget flight from London: £40-80 return (low season, Ryanair/Norwegian Air)
• Budget hotel: £60-90 per night
• Meal at a mid-range restaurant: £20-30
• Public transport pass (Oslo): £10 per day

💰 Budget Tip: Use Norwegian Air for cheap flights, buy groceries instead of eating out, and take advantage of Norway’s allemannsrett (right to roam) for free hiking and wild camping.

Sweden – A Perfect Mix of Nature and City Life

Why Visit?

Sweden offers a blend of modern cities and unspoiled nature. I’m looking forward to exploring Stockholm’s Old Town, cruising through the Stockholm Archipelago, and experiencing Swedish fika (coffee and cake culture).

Best Time to Visit for Budget Travel

• January–March for cheaper accommodation and Northern Lights in the north.
• May or September for lower flight prices and good weather.
• Avoid peak summer (June–August) when prices increase significantly.

Estimated Budget

• Budget flight from London: £30-70 return (Ryanair/EasyJet, low season)
• Budget hotel: £50-80 per night
• Meal at a mid-range restaurant: £12-20
• Public transport day pass (Stockholm): £10

💰 Budget Tip: Buy a Stockholm travel card, which includes ferries, metro, and buses. Use FlixBus or Vy trains for cheap travel between cities instead of expensive express trains.

Slovenia – Europe’s Best-Kept Secret?

Why Visit?

Slovenia is a small but stunning country, offering Lake Bled, Triglav National Park, and the vibrant capital, Ljubljana. The underground caves at Škocjan and Postojna are also must-visits.

Best Time to Visit for Budget Travel

• March–May and September–October for fewer tourists and lower prices.
• Avoid July–August when hotel prices double due to summer crowds.

Estimated Budget

• Budget flight from London: £35-80 return (Wizz Air/Ryanair, low season)
• Budget hotel: £40-70 per night
• Meal at a mid-range restaurant: £10-15
• Local bus fare: £1.50

💰 Budget Tip: Use the cheap and reliable bus network instead of renting a car. For an affordable meal, eat at local bakeries or "gostilnas" (traditional Slovenian restaurants).

Switzerland – The Ultimate Alpine Destination

Why Visit?

Switzerland is known for its snow-capped mountains, scenic train rides, and incredible lakes. I plan to visit Interlaken, the Swiss Alps, and take the Glacier Express train.

Best Time to Visit for Budget Travel

• April–May and September–October for fewer tourists and better prices.
• Avoid December–February unless you’re skiing (accommodation prices skyrocket).

Estimated Budget

• Budget flight from London: £40-100 return (EasyJet, low season)
• Budget hotel: £70-100 per night
• Meal at a mid-range restaurant: £20-35
• Swiss Travel Pass for unlimited trains/buses: £60 per day

💰 Budget Tip: Switzerland is expensive, so couchsurfing or staying in budget hotels with free breakfast helps. Buy food at supermarkets (Coop, Migros) instead of eating out.

North Macedonia – A Hidden Balkan Gem

Why Visit?

North Macedonia is one of the most affordable countries in Europe, known for Lake Ohrid, Skopje’s quirky architecture, and delicious food like tavče gravče (baked beans) and ajvar (pepper spread).

Best Time to Visit for Budget Travel

• April–June and September–October for pleasant weather and lower prices.

Estimated Budget

• Budget flight from London: £40-70 return (Wizz Air, low season)
• Budget hotel: £25-50 per night
• Meal at a local restaurant: £5-10
• Local transport: £0.50-£1 per ride

💰 Budget Tip: Everything is cheap, but avoid taxis (they overcharge tourists). Use buses or walk instead.

Montenegro – Stunning Coastlines and Mountain Scenery

Why Visit?

Montenegro has some of the most beautiful coastal towns in Europe, including Kotor, Budva, and Perast. I’m also looking forward to hiking in Durmitor National Park.

Best Time to Visit for Budget Travel

• April–May and September–October for cheap hotels and fewer crowds.

Estimated Budget

• Budget flight from London: £40-90 return (Ryanair, low season)
• Budget hotel: £30-60 per night
• Meal at a local restaurant: £5-15
• Bus from Podgorica to Kotor: £5

💰 Budget Tip: Travel outside of peak summer when hotel prices triple. Buses are cheap and cover most major destinations.

Moldova – The Least Visited Country in Europe

Why Visit?

Moldova is Europe’s least-visited country, home to Cricova’s underground wine cellars and the Soviet-like breakaway region of Transnistria.

Best Time to Visit for Budget Travel

• April–October for pleasant weather and cheap flights.

Estimated Budget

• Budget flight from London: £30-60 return (Wizz Air, low season)
• Budget hotel: £20-40 per night
• Meal at a local restaurant: £3-7
• Public transport: £0.20 per ride

💰 Budget Tip: Moldova is one of the cheapest countries in Europe. Public transport costs next to nothing, and local food is incredibly affordable.

Greece – Ancient History Meets Island Paradise

Why Visit?

Greece is famous for its ancient ruins, stunning islands, and Mediterranean cuisine. While Santorini and Mykonos attract most tourists, I’m more interested in lesser-known islands, historic sites like Delphi and Meteora, and the lively streets of Athens.

Best Time to Visit for Budget Travel

• March–May and September–October for cheaper accommodation and fewer tourists.
• Winter (November–February) is the cheapest time, but some islands may be quiet with limited ferry services.
• Avoid peak summer (June–August), when flights and hotels skyrocket in price.

Estimated Budget

• Budget flight from London: £40-100 return (Ryanair/EasyJet, low season)
• Budget hotel: £30-60 per night (Athens), £40-80 per night (Greek islands)
• Meal at a local taverna: £8-15
• Ferry from Athens to budget-friendly islands: £10-30 (depending on distance)
• Public transport in Athens: £1 per ride, or a 3-day pass for £15

💰 Budget Tip: Instead of expensive islands like Santorini, visit Naxos, Syros, or Paros, which are just as beautiful but far cheaper. Eat at local tavernas rather than touristy restaurants, and book ferries in advance for the best deals.

These eight countries are the final pieces of my European travel puzzle. Each offers something unique, whether it’s epic landscapes, rich history, or budget-friendly experiences. Over the next couple of years, I’ll be finding the best ways to visit them without spending a fortune – and sharing all my tips along the way!

Have you been to any of these destinations? Let me know your budget travel tips!