Top 5 affordable city breaks for a perfect weekend

Introduction

You know that feeling when you are in need of a vacation but your savings account looks empty? Well, my friend, shame and vacation have been two inseparable relatives in my life too! Now do you know why I have grown fond of low-cost city trips? Because they are a blessing for tourism addicts like me who do not want to re-mortgage their houses just to spend a weekend somewhere.

I vividly recall my first ever cheap weekend city trip. I was enviously looking at people’s holiday pictures on Instagram when I came across this brilliant idea. I mean these small getaways have become favorite of everyone these days, and why not? You get to stroll in beautiful streets, try out the local food and experience new culture without having to let your credit card lose its cool!

So it turns out that budget city breaks are not just a viral marketing campaign – they are a travel philosophy. And it is so great how you can find unbelievably priced flights, grab a couple of things in your backpack and all of a sudden you are in a dream location, somewhere in Europe, enjoying the time of your life.

Want to know where to start? I’ve done the hard work for you (my feet are still recovering!) and here are my top 5 budget city breaks:

• Vilnius
• Lisbon
• Athens
• Porto
• Tbilisi

I promise these will give you holiday feels without leaving you eating beans on toast for 6 months!

Affordable travel destinations

Criteria for Selecting Affordable City Breaks

So you want a budget weekend away? Here are the must-haves.

Flights: The Cheaper The Better

First of all, flights—the cheaper the better. If you can get one that doesn’t break the bank, you’re already winning.

Accommodation: Comfort & Affordability

Next up, accommodation. Character filled hostels, guesthouses or even an occasional Airbnb; anywhere you can rest your head without having sleepless nights about your bank account.

Local Food: A Treat for Your Tastebuds

And what’s a trip without eating local? Cities with affordable food and drink options are a must. Street food, hole-in-the-wall restaurants and quaint cafes not only save you money but often serve up the best local flavours.

Cultural Experiences: Richness Awaits

Cultural experiences shouldn’t be forgotten either. Often the richest moments come from wandering through a city’s old quarter or stumbling upon a local festival. Most of these will cost you no more than a few selfies and maybe a postcard.

Accessibility: Easy to Get To and Around

And the last, accessibility. You want a place that is quick to get there and to get around so that you do not spend those precious hours of exploration crawling through traffic. Whether that is getting on the train for a few minutes and getting off, or just walking around the pedestrian streets, it is supposed to be affordable and convenient for a city break.

Economical urban adventures

1. Vilnius

Let me tell you more about Vilnius - it is quite the place for someone looking to vacation on a budget! I couldn’t believe it when I discovered this Lithanian treasure where I had to spend less than I previously thought was feasible. Don’t stress it, the journey won’t be expensive since more than a few low-cost flights are available from some of the bigger cities in the UK.

Budget Accommodation

Need a place to crash? You’re spoiled for choice in Vilnius! I’ve stayed in some proper nice hostels that felt like my mate’s spare room and there are loads of lovely guesthouses that won’t break the bank. Whether you want a basic bunk or something a bit posher you’ll find somewhere that fits your budget like a glove.

Food on a Budget

Now let’s talk about the food - oh my god, it’s amazing! I still dream about those cepelinai (these potato dumplings will warm your cockles) and kibinai (think of the tastiest pasties you’ve ever had). The best bit? You can eat your fill without breaking the bank. I had some proper feasts for what you’d pay for a sandwich meal deal back home!

Budget Transportation

Here’s a top tip from me - skip the taxis and hop on the local buses or trolleybuses. They’re cheap as chips and get you everywhere you need to go. I actually ended up walking most of the time - it’s dead easy to get around on foot and I kept stumbling across these lovely little spots down winding cobbled streets that I would have missed otherwise.

I mean, Vilnius is a total bargain city break. You get all the charm and culture you need without the credit card debt at the end. Every time I think about my trip there I smile - it’s one of those places where you can have a real adventure without your bank balance having a fit!

Best budget-friendly cities to visit, Vilnius

2. Lisbon, Portugal

As soon as I set my foot on the streets of Lisbon, I knew that I had fallen in love with the place. Now, if you want an affordable option for a weekend getaway and fancy the sun, then this Portuguese beauty is the place for you. What I’ve come to know is that this place is ideal for us low-budget travelers who do not wish to compromise on the atmosphere.

Cultural Attractions & Architecture

What's interesting about Lisbon? The place feels like an open-air museum but without it being so boring. I could spend an eternity just admiring the Belém Tower, of which yes, I have around a million pictures! I was also thoroughly impressed with the Mosteiro dos Jerónimos in fact here is a tip to save money, many of the museums in the area are free on Sunday mornings! Ever heard of azulejos? Those stunning Portuguese tiles are ubiquitous and not to be missed is the National Tile Museum. That’s nothing though; Alfama is still a maze I didn’t know I could find such beautiful Fado music on my stroll through its streets one night.

Budget Accommodation

Ever stayed in a hostel before? With everything on offer at Home Lisbon Hostel, I wouldn’t be spending more than 25 euros and even then, I had amazing people in their kitchen. Better yet, if you are looking for hostels that don’t require you to spend more than the ‘bare minimum’ and don’t involve sharing rooms, I found some lovely. However, if it’s a bit more private you desire (which I think we all do sometimes) I discovered some wonderful guest houses, in Bairro Alto, that were like staying at a girlfriend’s house, except there is no need for breakfast, small talk!

Eat Local on a Budget

Okay, let’s talk about the food because, honestly, it’s half the reason I keep coming back! You haven’t lived until you’ve had a warm pastel de nata for breakfast - I may have had three in one sitting, but who’s counting? The local bifanas (pork sandwiches) are super cheap and cheerful and the traditional tabernas serve up massive portions that’ll keep you full for hours. Here’s a top tip: during the feast of St. Anthony, follow your nose to the grilled sardines - they’re a total bargain and delicious!

Affordable short trips, Lisbonne

If you want to extend a bit your weekend in Lisbonne, checkout this article- Visit Lisbonne in 4 days

3. Athens, Greece

I have to tell you about Athens - it’s amazing! You know what’s great about this city? Ancient ruins next to coffee shops and you won’t have to remortgage your house to enjoy it.

Iconic Landmarks on a Budget

Let me share a money saving tip I found out: the Acropolis (that big hill with all the ancient buildings you’ve seen in postcards) has some great deals if you time it right. I remember I almost did a little dance when I found out that from November to March you can visit loads of archaeological sites for free on the first Sunday of each month. Brilliant! You can walk around the Ancient Agora or gawp at the Temple of Hephaestus for free!

Accommodation and Dining on a Dime

Finding a place to stay in Athens is a doddle, I promise. I’ve stayed in some great hostels and budget hotels that were real bargains. And don’t even get me started on the food - you haven’t lived until you’ve had a proper Greek souvlaki from a street vendor. These little gems are not only tasty but cheap as chips! I usually grab one (or two… who’s counting?) and find a nice spot to sit and people watch while I eat.

Inexpensive Activities and Hidden Gems

Once you’ve seen the big tourist sights, it’s time to get adventurous. Have a wander around Plaka - it’s this lovely neighbourhood with streets so narrow you could touch both sides at once! I found some great little museums too, like the Museum of Islamic Art and the Benaki Museum. They’re much cheaper than the main attractions and just as good.

What makes Athens stand out to you? It’s not just looking at something in an architectural sense, but more about experiencing that something. When you are touching the columns made of marble or having a proper Greek dish, everything feels right. The best part of it all is that you can do it without spending a fortune.

Affordable cultural trips, Athens

4. Porto, Portugal

I have to tell you about Porto - it’s like finding a designer outfit at a charity shop price! Situated along the beautiful Douro River, this little gem gives you Instagram worthy views for free. Nothing delights me as much as being at a cafe by the river in the Ribeira quarter or going for a walk on the Dom Luís I Bridge at sunset - fantastic stuff I tell you!

Cheap and Tasty

Right, now let’s get to the good stuff - the food! I’m properly pleased to report that Porto’s food is a steal. You have to try the francesinha - it’s this naughty sandwich smothered in a tomato and beer sauce that’ll make you weak at the knees. And don’t even get me started on the pastéis de nata! These little custard tarts are more addictive than your favourite Netflix series. Pop into any tascas (that’s what they call their traditional taverns) and you’ll find proper Portuguese food that’ll fill your belly and your bank account.

Sleep for Less

Need a place to stay? Porto has some great budget options that’ll make you feel like you’re living large. I’ve stayed in hostels with views that would make a 5 star hotel jealous and there are these lovely guesthouses hidden away in the old town that are a total bargain. Trust me you won’t believe the charm you can get for your pounds!

Cheap and Cheerful

Want to fill your days with proper memories? Here’s what I think you shouldn’t miss:

• Ribeira Waterfront: Take a stroll here - it’s free and fabulous.
• Port Wine Tasting: Pop over to Vila Nova de Gaia and try some Port wine. It’s usually pretty cheap and sometimes you might even get one free!

I’ve found that Porto is one of those places where you can have a proper great time without constantly worrying about your bank account. Whether you’re sipping Port by the river or soaking up the local atmosphere you’ll wonder why you didn’t come sooner!

Low-budget travel ideas, Porto

5. Tbilisi, Georgia

Ever wanted to step into a time machine without leaving Europe? Well, I’ve found the place! Tbilisi, Georgia is like that weird museum that’s come to life. I love how the city’s architecture tells its own story – medieval churches alongside classical mansions and Soviet buildings thrown in for good measure. Walking through the Old Town with its twisty streets and wooden balconies I can’t help but imagine the merchants who once travelled the Silk Road haggling over their goodies.

Cheap Eats

So, the food – oh my god, the food! I’m still dreaming about those juicy khinkali dumplings that cost less than a London coffee. And don’t even get me started on khachapuri – imagine the best cheese toastie you’ve ever had, then multiply that by ten! I’ve found loads of lovely little family run places where you can stuff yourself silly without breaking the bank.

Budget Accommodation

Need a place to stay? No problem! I’ve stayed in some really lovely guesthouses where the hosts treat you like long lost family. There are plenty of clean, comfy hostels too if you’re on a tight budget.

Local Experiences

Want a proper Georgian experience without breaking the bank? You have to try the sulphur baths – trust me, there’s nothing like soaking in these waters after a day of sightseeing. I went to one last time I was there and felt like a new person afterwards! And if you like music (who doesn’t?) you can catch some great folk performances that’ll have your toes tapping in no time.

I think Tbilisi’s mix of fascinating history, good food and culture makes it a total winner for a budget weekend. Whether you’re photographing the architecture or eating your third khachapuri of the day (no judgement here!) you’ll have a great time without spending a fortune. It’s definitely made it into my Top 5 budget city breaks!

Cheap weekend getaways in Europe, Tbilisi

Other Mentions

• Riga, Latvia: Just a short hop from Vilnius, Riga has an old town experience for budget prices and loads of cultural cred. Perfect for a weekend of Baltic vibes without breaking the bank.
• Klagenfurt, Austria: Surrounded by nature, Klagenfurt is an under the radar gem for nature lovers. Affordable, peaceful lakes and green landscapes are a nice change of pace from city sightseeing.
• Brighton, UK: This is the best Brighton, multicultural, fun and cheap. It’s exactly what beach lovers who want to see a bit more than the coasts of Athens.
• Marseille, France: For foodies looking for cultural diversity on a budget, Marseille’s views and food is what you need. A great follow up to Porto’s food scene and you want more than just sunbathing.
• Bilbao, Spain: Bilbao is a dream for art enthusiasts, with its international character and the Guggenheim Museum. In contrast to the distinct architecture of Tbilisi, this city offers plenty of culture without the expense commonly associated with leading art cities.

Conclusion

Travel shouldn't cost a fortune, especially if you want a short weekend away. These top 5 cheap city breaks for a weekend have you discovering new cities without a hole in your pocket. From exploring the stunning sights of Athens to enjoying Port beside the river in Porto, the list encompasses some of the experiences which are once in a lifetime.

In all these adventures, remain flexible and allow spontaneity to lead you. Sometimes the best memories are created by accident, like unintentionally discovering a hole-in-the-wall restaurant serving food that is completely new to you. Forget about following that itinerary; instead go with the tide and have fun in every experience.