The Bosnian capital, Sarajevo, topped the list.
Unfavorable trends in the global economy are already leading to higher travel costs, so tourists are starting to pay more attention to budget destinations and vacation formats.
A city break, or a short city vacation, is one of the most affordable travel options for budget-conscious tourists, as it allows them to take low-cost flights from low-cost carriers to another city for a few days, while avoiding significant expenses due to the short duration of the trip.
The British publication The Independent has compiled a list of the top 10 European cities for budget-friendly urban vacations in 2026.
To create their ranking, the journalists analyzed the Numbeo cost of living index and Skyscanner’s recommendations for the cheapest month to travel.
The leader of the rating is Sarajevo
The list was topped by the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Sarajevo, where flight prices are the lowest during the winter months. Experts note that the city is ideal for coffee lovers, as locals start their day with a hot cup of strong coffee brewed in a jaz. On average, a cup of coffee costs 1.62 pounds.
In Sarajevo, you can try main dishes such as kebab chevapi and stewed lonac, which cost an average of 6.74 pounds.
Guests are also invited to learn more about the city’s complex history by visiting some of its main attractions, including the Ottoman-era Gazi Husrev-Bega Mosque for £1.35 and the “Tunnel of Salvation” Museum.” dedicated to the siege of the city in the 1990s, for 9 pounds, and the War Child Museum, which highlights the experiences of children in Bosnia and around the world, for 4.39 pounds. Lighter activities include a cable car ride to the mountains for 9 pounds or watching the streets below at sunset from the Yellow Fortress.
The 10 Best Cheap Cities for City Break in Europe in 2026
- Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina.
- Sofia, Bulgaria.
- Braga, Portugal.
- Bucharest, Romania.
- Krakow, Poland.
- Tirana, Albania.
- Seville, Spain.
- Budapest, Hungary.
- Catania, Italy.
- Thessaloniki, Greece.
