City breaks can be one of the most effective ways to tap into a country’s culture. Whether it’s a whirlwind weekend or a fortnight of getting to know a new neighbourhood, city breaks offer a full-bodied, in-at-the-deep-end immersion that beach resorts and remote country hotels seldom can. But that cultural crash course can come with a price tag, and hidden ones at that; flights from London to Venice sell for as low as £11, but it’s one of Europe’s most expensive cities for accommodation and food. So we’ve broken down some of the latest data on cheap city breaks in Europe for 2023, from a coastal cosmopolis to a snow-capped ski city.

In 2023, the Post Office released new data ranking affordable city breaks in Europe. You'll find some of the cities from their study below – including Lisbon, Athens and Riga. The full list from the Post Office is as follows:

1. Lisbon, Portugal
2. Vilnius, Lithuania
3. Krakow, Poland
4. Athens, Greece
5. Riga, Latvia
6. Porto, Portugal
7. Zagreb, Croatia
8. Budapest, Hungary
9. Warsaw, Poland
10. Lille, France

Below, we've also included some of our favourite affordable European city breaks that might be a little less known, such as Klagenfurt in Austria and Berat, Albania. Going off the beaten track is a wonderful way to make your money go further – while exploring a lesser-tramelled part of Europe.

What is the cheapest European city for a holiday?

For 2023, the Portuguese capital of Lisbon is officially the cheapest European city break thanks to its affordable food scene, cheap transport and bargain flights. Plus, Lisbon has, on average, the cheapest beer – all the more reason to visit.

What is the most expensive city in Europe?

Post Office data ranks Amsterdam as the most expensive city break in Europe for 2023.

Note: you’ll notice some wonderful European cities missing from this list, namely Kyiv. It has been tragically affected by the war in Ukraine, and should be avoided until safe to visit – until then, find out how to help the people of Ukraine right now, and see how you can support through your travel choices.