The stunning European city is located just 2.5 hours from England and is a bargain compared to Amsterdam or Paris. With the summer season just around the corner, it’s time to start thinking about upcoming holiday plans.
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly alternative to some of the more busy tourist destinations, one underrated city has earned the title of “cheapest city in Europe.”
Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania, is a boon for those on a tight budget, having been voted the most affordable travel destination in Europe.
The Lithuanian capital took first place in the Post’s City Costs Barometer 2023, which measures the cost of a weekend trip in 48 cities across the continent. Only Lisbon performed better in terms of value for money.
In Vilnius, a typical three-course meal for two with house wine will cost £52.86, and you can get a beer for just £2.69. If you’re looking for accommodation, a two-night stay in a three-star hotel for two people will cost £128.
The Lithuanian city is rich in history, and guided tours and museum visits allow you to delve deeper into Vilnius’ role in World War II and beyond. Vilnius is famous for its hot air balloon rides, which often transform the skyline into a sea of color, reports MyLondon.
You can book a hot air balloon ride from just £148.09. While there are no beaches nearby, mountain hikes, bathing in natural lakes and even coffee tours are all part of the experience. For around €35, you can book a mountain bike tour through the nearby Pavilniai Regional Park.
According to the same report, a ticket to a top art gallery costs £7.22, and entry to an average cultural attraction is completely free.
This means that a weekend away for two people will cost on average around £225.01. In comparison, Amsterdam costs £727.07, Venice £687.06 and Paris £604.49.
You could travel to Vilnius three times and still not spend even two nights in the Dutch capital!
A gem often overlooked by tourists and described as “seriously underrated” by one TripAdvisor reviewer, the city’s budget-friendly appeal makes it an ideal place for a short break.
From local natural sights to affordable beers, Vilnius is a must-see. A flight from London to Vilnius takes just around two and a half hours. A flight in May costs between £22 and £86 one way, depending on when you book.
The airlines Ryanair, LOT and Wizz fly from London to Vilnius.
