11 Cheapest European Country To Visit From India 2024 – Forbes Advisor INDIA

Like many Indians, you may have also fantasized about wandering the picturesque streets of Europe, immersing in ancient castles’ history, and relishing local cuisines’ flavors. However, such dreams sometimes take a back seat due to the high costs of European travel. But, say no more to dreaming of exploring Europe and yes to being a wanderlust and touring the countries physically. 

 brought together several budget-friendly countries perfect for exploring from India in this detailed guide.

Top Cheapest European Countries to Visit from India

Austria

Flight ticket: Starts from around INR 69,000
Best time to visit: Early May to September
Top three cities: Vienna, Salzburg and Innsbruck

Austria captivates tourists with its breathtaking landscapes, lush meadows, and magnificent alpine peaks. The country is rich in cultures and histories that smoothly blend with contemporary life. You can indulge in thrilling adventures, marvel at stunning architecture, and enjoy spirited nightlife across various cities. 

Each destination in Austria offers its natural splendor, unique heritage, and lifestyle, making for an intriguing exploration. From renowned wine collections to crystal-clear lakes, Austria offers a lot of surprises to discover. Exploring the alluring cities of Austria showcases the abundant beauty and charm.

Approximate Budget: INR 14,000 per day
Visa Cost: INR 7,200 + VFS Global Service Charges

Bulgaria

Flight ticket: Starts from around INR 98,000
Best time to visit: April to June
Top three cities: Sofia, Plovdiv and Burgas

Once a hidden gem, Bulgaria is gaining popularity as a sought-after holiday destination. The country has picturesque golden beaches along the Black Sea, numerous historic sites, and mountainous terrain, so travelers are drawn to Bulgaria. Additionally, the country offers affordability, marking it as a budget-friendly option compared to resorts along the Mediterranean.

While some beaches remain tranquil, others have become famous hubs for sunbathing, swimming, and various water sports activities. 

Approximate Budget: INR 10,500 per day
Visa Cost: INR 7,600 + VFS Global Service Charges

Czechia (Czech Republic) 

Flight ticket: Starts from around INR 60,000
Best time to visit: March to May, September and October
Top three cities: Prague, Český Krumlov and Kutna Hora 

Despite being one of the smaller nations in Europe, the Czech Republic always impresses tourists seeking a taste of Central Europe. Thanks to its compact size and systematic public transport system, navigating the country becomes relatively easy, particularly for visitors planning to spend a significant portion of their vacation in Prague’s charming capital. While Prague boasts a plethora of captivating attractions, there are plenty of off-the-beaten-path destinations that are best toured by car.

Proceeding into the Czech countryside offers a chance to discover various conservation areas and excellent national parks. Among these, Bohemian Paradise is one of the most popular destinations, renowned for its spectacular natural beauty characterized by splendid rock formations and well-preserved historic castles. With abundant activities and sights to explore, visiting the Czech Republic promises a rewarding experience filled with hidden treasures you will be waiting to discover.

Approximate Budget: INR 10,000 per day
Visa Cost: INR 7,200 + VFS Global Service Charges

Denmark

Flight ticket: Starts from around INR 64,000
Best time to visit: June to August
Top three cities: Copenhagen, Aarhus and Odense

Denmark is an enchanting Scandinavian nation located in Northern Europe and presents an abundance of charming destinations that promise to amaze visitors. With its storied history, dynamic culture and scenic landscapes, Denmark offers numerous places to explore for a truly unique holiday experience. 

You can begin your Danish journey by exploring the captivating streets of Copenhagen, the capital city. Take in the sights of the iconic Little Mermaid statue, inspired by the renowned fairytale penned by Hans Christian Andersen, while relaxingly wandering along the picturesque canals.

Approximate Budget: INR 9,000 per day
Visa Cost: Around INR 7,239 + VFS Global Service Charges

Estonia

Flight ticket: Starts from around INR 74,000
Best time to visit: July to August
Top three cities: Tallinn, Pärnu and Tartu

Estonia has a unique character that stands out from neighboring nations along the Baltic Sea. Its expansive forests retain a rugged, untouched beauty, while cities like Tallinn (the country’s capital) showcase remarkably well-preserved medieval architecture. City walls, stone towers, and cobblestone streets create an environment equivalent to stepping back in time. 

Given the challenging Baltic climate, the summer season is brief, making June through August the ideal time to explore the outdoors. However, the Christmas snowfall adds a magical touch, though some regional destinations may become isolated due to hazardous conditions.

Approximate Budget: INR 9,500 per day
Visa Cost: INR 7,215 + VFS Global Service Charges

Greece

Flight ticket: Starts from around INR 50,000
Best time to visit: September
Top three cities: Athens, Thessaloniki and Kavala 

Vibrant blue waters surround Greece and boast around 2,000 islands, with around 160 known to be inhabited. Renowned worldwide as the birthplace of Plato, Aristotle, and Socrates, this iconic country is celebrated for its rich cultural heritage, illustrious history, and colorful festivals. Greece’s enduring allure owes much to its picturesque islands, pristine beaches, majestic mountains, stunning ancient ruins, and grand monuments.

Greece offers plenty of captivating destinations that have long been the main draws for tourists. From the historic sites of Athens, the architectural marvels of Santorini, the stunning beaches of Mykonos and the breathtaking gorges of Crete, this peninsula nation offers a plethora of compelling sights to behold during your visit to Greece.

Approximate Budget: INR 12,000 per day
Visa Cost: INR 8,326 + Indian Community Welfare Fund Charges (ICWF)

Hungary

Flight ticket: Starts from around INR 80,000
Best time to visit: March to May, September and October
Top three cities: Budapest, Eger, and Pécs

When Hungary comes to mind, the magnificent Danube River, images of castles, Budapest, traditional folk art and thermal spas immediately emerge. This alone indicates that compiling a list of must-have experiences in this country could be limitless. 

With its captivating blend of picturesque landscapes conjuring up a bygone era and vibrant urban centers boasting contemporary amenities, Hungary is an ideal travel destination for those seeking diverse experiences.

Approximate Budget: INR 11,000 per day
Visa Cost: INR 7,290 + VFS Global Service Charges

Poland

Flight ticket: Starts from around INR 67,000
Best time to visit: May
Top three cities: Warsaw, Kraków and Gdańsk

Poland’s medieval architecture and cobblestone streets ooze the charm of a classic European city. Here, history intertwines with nature, creating a unique blend of ancient attractions amidst natural beauty that defines the country’s soul..

The capital city of Poland, Warsaw, stands as a testament to its rich cultural heritage, having rebuilt itself from the ruins of World War II into a notable urban center. For those interested in delving into the nation’s history, Krakow is a must-visit, remarkable home to the Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp, which is now transformed into a museum documenting the horrors imposed by the Nazis in Poland. 

Approximate Budget: INR 8,000 per day
Visa Cost:  INR 7,353 + VFS Global Service Charges

Romania

Flight ticket: Starts from around INR 76,000
Best time to visit: March to October
Top three cities: Bucharest, Brașov and Sinaia

Romania boasts many renowned attractions, ranging from painted monasteries to magnificent castles. Bran Castle, Poenari Castle, Peles Castle, and the Palace of Culture are among the country’s beautiful heritage sites. Other remarkable destinations that have long drawn large numbers of tourists include the Sphinx and Babele, the Danube Delta, Cluj-Napoca, Sarmizegetusa Regia, The Red Ravine, Sighișoara, and the Brukenthal Art Museum.

Romania offers a variety of enjoyable and thrilling activities. Tourists can embark on a heritage tour, exploring landmarks such as Corvin Castle and Putna Monastery. Additionally, they can immerse themselves in history by visiting the country’s numerous museums, such as the Museum of Banat and the Museum of the Romanian Peasant. Furthermore, you can observe brown bears in their natural habitat and relax on the beaches along the Black Sea.

Approximate Budget: INR 9,000 per day
Visa Cost:  Around INR 8,373 + Indian Community Welfare Fund Charges (ICWF)

Slovakia

Flight ticket: Starts from around INR 84,000
Best time to visit: May to September
Top three cities: Bratislava, Poprad and Košice

Slovakia offers a comprehensive exploration of captivating cities, including its significant attractions, rich history, and heritage. It provides everything needed for an ideal family vacation or adventure travel experience. Whether you seek a break to escape your hectic routine and immerse yourself in tranquil natural surroundings, Slovakia promises unforgettable memories. 

You can snowboard through high-lofted mountains, rolling rivers, wooded hills, and other adventurous activities like skiing, river rafting, and hiking. Its exciting nature also provides a soothing relaxation experience in the secluded wooded hills or valleys. 

Approximate Budget: INR 9,000 per day
Visa Cost:  Around INR 7,238 + VFS Global Service Charges (If applicable)

Sweden

Flight ticket: Starts from around INR 73,000
Best time to visit: November to March
Top three cities: Stockholm, Gothenburg and Malmo

Sweden is known for its Northern Lights, reindeer, frozen terrain, ice hotels, and Viking heritage, which presents an enticing destination for tourists seeking a distinctive cultural immersion. 

Describing its expansive landscapes as merely romantic would be an understatement; the country boasts breathtaking vistas akin to scenes from a Wes Anderson film. With unimpaired forests, sparkling lakes, mouth-watering local cuisine, and refreshing beer, staying in Sweden offers a unique experience unlike anything you’ve encountered.

Approximate Budget: INR 10,000 per day
Visa Cost:  Around INR 7,237 + VFS Global Service Charges

Note: The approximate budget and top cities may differ depending on your preferences; thus, the budget might be adjusted accordingly. The flight charges also depend on the airline, class, and travel time. 

Why Should you Buy International Travel Insurance While Visiting European Countries?

Here are a few reasons why you need to buy International travel insurance while visiting European countries:

• Travel insurance is one of the essential and crucial requirements to opt for a European visa. Insufficient coverage can lead to delay in visa processing delays or worse denial.
• While falling sick during travel is challenging, a medical emergency can result in significant financial burdens in a foreign country, especially if medical evacuation is mandatory. Overseas travel insurance provides medical expenses and hospitalization coverage, ensuring prompt assistance.
• Flight disruptions due to medical emergencies, poor weather, or other unforeseen circumstances can disrupt travel plans and you will end up paying additional expenses. Travel insurance helps mitigate these costs by covering flight cancellation fees and related charges.
• Loss or theft of belongings, including luggage mishandling by airlines or theft of substantial items like passports and credit cards, is common while traveling. Comprehensive travel insurance policies include coverage for these incidents.
• There is also a family travel insurance option that provides for the needs of an entire family, from coverage for two adults up to 60 years old and dependent children up to 21 years old.
• Travel insurance plans also offer you liability coverage, protecting travelers if they are held responsible for injuries or property damage suffered by others during the trip.
• Some travel insurance policies extend coverage to the insured’s residence abroad, offering protection against fire, burglary, and other unforeseen events. Additional services such as medical concierge services, automotive assistance, and lifestyle support may also be included in specific policies.

Read More: Travel Insurance for Schengen Visa

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