10 cheapest European cities for an autumn break

Here are the city breaks that could slash your autumn holiday bill in half

With summer long over, going on a cheap city break is the perfect way to alleviate the autumn blues. This is why we've rounded up ten European city breaks that won't cost you the earth.

Surprising tips include the Greek capital Athens, where hostels are available for only €10. Other alternative autumn breaks include the Serbian capital Belgrade and Lisbon in Portugal, where you can book low-cost accommodation from as little as €7 per night.

Already reaching for your passport and your debit card, we don’t blame you. Check out some of our favourite city breaks below.

Vilnius, Lithuania

Image by David Kosmos Smith (Flickr/Creative Commons)

The Lithuanian capital continues to be a budget-friendly favourite for travellers. Its low-cost prices have played a key role, with city bus tours coming in at just over €9 and budget restaurants no more than €10 per head, not to mention hostel dorms from only €6 per night.

Budapest, Hungary

Image by Paolo Margari (Flickr/Creative Commons)

Always a budget travel favourite, the Hungarian capital is so cheap many people go home with change. With some of its greatest historic attractions costing less than €6 to visit you can have a great time for less in this city. Hostels are incredibly cheap too, with dorms going for as little as €7.

Lisbon, Portugal

Image by Michael Levine-Clark (Flickr/Creative Commons)

As one of the cheapest Western European capitals, Lisbon is a joy to behold on holiday. You can explore most of the city’s attractions on foot and sleep in the beautiful city centre from only €7 per night.

Athens, Greece

Image by Kristoffer Trolle (Flickr/Creative Commons)

If you want to explore the Ancient World, but don't want to break the bank, then Athens is a popular autumn destination thanks to its delicious cheap restaurants and budget accommodation options.

Belgrade, Serbia

Image by Jorge Láscar (Flickr/Creative Commons)

The Serbian capital is one of the most affordable cities in Europe. With a vibrant food scene and flourishing cafe culture, you can stay in the city centre for only €6.

Krakow, Poland

Image by Nico Trinkhaus (Flickr/Creative Commons)

The royal gem of Poland is a picturesque delight and sightseeing can easily be done on a budget. A long standing favourite with budget travellers, your money will go far in Krakow this autumn.

Catania, Italy

Image by Catania (Flickr/Creative Commons)

Brimming with culture and historic landmarks, Catania is incredibly cheap and has everything from beautiful food to volcano tours. Not to mention clean, affordable hostels right in the city centre, with some going for only €10 per night.

Riga, Latvia

Image by Graham (Flickr/Creative Commons)

With its pristine architecture and vibrant nightlife, Riga is a popular choice with budget travellers looking for a city break. Prices are much lower in autumn so you’ll be able to stay here for less. If you book a hostel it will only cost €7 a night to stay in the city centre.

Istanbul, Turkey

Image by Pedro Szekely (Flickr/Creative Commons)

As one of the world’s most enchanting cities, you may be surprised to know that Istanbul is one of the cheapest city breaks around. Stay in Turkey's metropolis for only €6 per night and take in the incredible atmosphere by day.

Zagreb, Croatia

Image by G0DeX (Flickr/Creative Commons)

With its Austro-Hungarian architecture and vibrant nightlife, you can have an amazing time on a budget here. You can stay in Zagreb for under €9 if you book in advance.

*Header image by Tim Stief (Unsplash)