Travel expert shares five budget-friendly European cities worth visiting this off-season

As schools reopen and people return to work, the autumn season is the perfect time to explore some of Europe’s most beautiful cities at a more leisurely pace.

Visitor numbers tend to drop in September and October, allowing travelers to save big during a much quieter time of year.

“Flight and hotel prices can drop significantly at this time of year,” says Laura Carden-Lovell, travel expert and head of travel resale at Transfer Travel.

However, she urges off-peak holidaymakers to be aware of the extra costs that can add up quickly.

“It’s also important to think about transportation in the city you want to visit and find out how much it might cost,” recommends Carden-Lovell. “Walkable cities are great if you’re planning a short city break, as you’ll be able to explore lots of places on foot for free.

“Rental car prices also tend to drop during the off-season compared to the peak summer seasons.”

Many hidden gems in Europe, especially the Balkans, have seen a surge in interest driven by social media.

“Social media provides travelers with insight into what to see and do in a particular destination, so platforms like TikTok and Instagram can be a great source of inspiration for vacation planning,” says Carden-Lovell.

For those who’ve been patiently waiting for the perfect last-minute city getaway, here are five budget destinations worth considering:

1. Tirana in Albania

“Tirana in Albania is vibrant, colorful and full of history,” says Carden-Lovell.

“Albania is one of Europe’s largest and fastest growing tourism markets, which is why its capital Tirana is becoming increasingly popular.”

The city contains many different and interesting places to explore, which combine a vibrant modern culture with a unique communist and Ottoman history.

“I would recommend starting your exploration from Skanderbeg Square. [the main plaza in the centre of Tirana]which costs nothing to explore, advises Carden-Lovell. “Then head to Bloka, a lively area where you can go to a café.”

For the best scenic views of Tirana, hop on the Daiti Express, a cable car that takes you straight from the edge of Tirana to the edge of Mount Daiti National Park.

“This is the longest holiday cable car in the Balkans and costs around £15 return,” says Carden-Lovell. “Exploring the national park itself is also completely free.”

You can get flight tickets to Tirana at incredible prices. For example, Wizz Air offers return flights from London Gatwick and London Luton to Tirana for around £34.

2. Sarajevo in Bosnia and Herzegovina

“Sarajevo is something a little different and a great affordable option for a fall city break,” says Carden-Lovell.

It is also considered an incredibly good city for begging.

“The Old Town has lots of traditional market stalls, lots of local crafts, some really good food shops and some historic mosques to explore,” says Carden-Lovell.

“There is also the famous Pigeon Square. [officially known as Baščaršija Square]which is centered around the famous Sebille wooden fountain, so there is a lot of history wrapped up in this small town.”

A walking tour can be a great way to get to know the city’s attractions.

“Most walking tours are free and are a great way to discover what the city has to offer. Many can be booked online,” says Carden-Lovell.

Wizz Air offers return flights from London Luton to Sarajevo from £78.98.

3. Sofia in Bulgaria

“Bulgaria is another great place to visit on a budget,” says Carden-Lovell. “Its capital, Sofia, has some really beautiful cathedrals that are very beautiful both inside and out.”

Bulgaria’s capital is full of reminders of its extensive history.

“You can join a walking tour to see some of the Roman ruins or churches, and it’s also worth visiting the historic Roman thermal baths if you have time,” says Carden-Lovell.

This delightful city has an efficient and accessible public transport network, making it very easy to get around.

“Sofia has a very cheap tram, so you don’t have to walk everywhere if you don’t want to,” says Carden-Lovell.

You can get real thefts on flights. For example, Ryanair offers return flights from Bristol to Sofia for around £40.99.

4. Tallinn in Estonia

“I’d also recommend visiting Tallinn in Estonia – it’s very popular on TikTok,” says Carden-Lovell.

“Stay in the heart of the old town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with wonderful fairy-tale streets and colorful buildings.”

After wandering around the charming old town, visit the creative city of Telliskivi, Tallinn’s creative hotspot.

“It’s a little more modern than the old town and there are lots of independent cafes, local artists, street art and bars,” says Carden-Lovell.

She also suggests relaxing in one of the city’s public saunas.

“Saunas are an important part of Estonian culture, so I would definitely recommend going somewhere to sauna, especially during the colder months,” recommends Carden-Lovell.

Wizz Air offers return flights from London Luton to Tallinn for around £58.53.

5. Riga in Latvia

“Another great city to visit during the off-season is Riga in Latvia,” says Carden-Lovell. “You can explore the medieval city on foot and soak up all of its history.

“Transport is also very cheap and there are plenty of independent coffee shops to check out.”

Be sure to visit St. Peter’s Church, which is one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks.

“The observation tower at St. Peter’s Church offers a magnificent 360-degree view of the city,” says Carden-Lovell.

According to Tripadvisor, a look inside the church usually costs around 3 euros, but if you want to go to the observation tower, it will cost 9 euros.

Riga also has a vibrant and growing food scene.

“I would highly recommend trying the Latvian honey cake here,” recommends Carden-Lovell.

Ryanair offers return flights from London Stansted to Riga from £60.99.