What is the cheapest European country to visit in 2024?

I am currently planning my annual backpacking trip across Europe and I am trying to keep my budget as low as possible. I've heard mixed things about places like Albania, Portugal, and Hungary regarding how far your money actually goes. Could anyone share their recent experiences or recommendations on which European countries are truly the most affordable for travelers right now?

Albania is hands down the cheapest option right now for backpackers. You can easily get by on less than 30 dollars a day.

I just got back from Hungary last month and while Budapest is getting pricier, the countryside and smaller towns are still super affordable.

Portugal used to be a budget haven, but honestly, Western Europe prices have caught up with it quite a bit in the major cities.

If you want to know how to stretch every dollar, you should read this guide on how to travel Europe on a budget before you book anything.

Check out Bosnia and Herzegovina or Montenegro if you want jaw-dropping scenery without Western European price tags.

North Macedonia is another sleeper hit for cheap travel. Food, hostels, and public transit are ridiculously inexpensive.

I spent two weeks in Albania and paid like 10 euros a night for fantastic hostel beds. Highly recommend it for budget travelers.

Hungary is great, but don't sleep on Poland! Wroclaw and Krakow offer amazing value for food, drinks, and accommodation.

If you are looking for somewhere less touristy and cheap, check out some of the recommendations in this article on top 10 hidden gems in Europe for summer vacation.

Portugal is definitely more expensive than it was five years ago, especially Lisbon and Porto during peak season.

Romania is also an incredible destination for backpackers. Transylvania is cheap, beautiful, and full of history.

Bulgaria is another strong contender. Sunny Beach can be touristy, but places like Veliko Tarnovo are super cheap and authentic.

For your first time backpacking, you might also want to look at some well-traveled routes by checking out best places to visit in Europe for first-timers.

Serbia is massively underrated. Belgrade has an amazing nightlife scene and your money goes so much further there than in Western Europe.

Stick to the Balkans if you want the absolute most value for your money in 2024. Albania, Bosnia, and Montenegro are unbeatable.