Introduction
Traveling doesn’t always have to break the bank, especially when you’re flying out of Ireland. Thanks to budget airlines, flexible booking options, and the wide range of affordable destinations, Irish travelers can enjoy breathtaking trips without spending thousands. Many countries across Europe—and even beyond—offer cheap flights, budget accommodation, and cost-friendly experiences. From sun-soaked beaches in Portugal to historic cities in Poland, there are endless options that combine culture, adventure, and affordability.
The beauty of budget travel is that you don’t need to sacrifice quality for price. In fact, some of the cheapest destinations provide the most authentic travel experiences. Imagine sipping coffee in a Portuguese plaza, soaking in a Hungarian thermal bath, or wandering through colorful Moroccan souks—all while spending less than you would on a weekend in Dublin.
In this guide, we’ll explore 15 of the cheapest countries to visit from Ireland, breaking down average flight costs, budget-friendly activities, and money-saving travel hacks. Whether you’re planning a short city break or a longer getaway, this list will help you stretch your euros further and still enjoy every moment of your journey.
1. Portugal
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Portugal is a dream destination for budget-conscious Irish travelers. Flights from Dublin to Lisbon, Porto, or Faro can often be found for as little as €40–€70 with airlines like Ryanair or Aer Lingus if you book in advance. Beyond cheap flights, Portugal is one of the most affordable Western European countries when it comes to accommodation, food, and daily expenses.
In Lisbon, you can stay in budget-friendly hostels or guesthouses for around €15–€25 per night. Meals at local restaurants cost between €7–€12, and if you go for a “prato do dia” (dish of the day), you’ll save even more. Portugal is also famous for its wine and pastries—don’t miss trying a “pastel de nata” for under €2.
When it comes to attractions, Portugal offers plenty of free or cheap things to do. Wander through Alfama’s winding streets, enjoy stunning coastal views in Cascais, or visit Porto’s riverside Ribeira district. Public transport is very affordable, with metro rides in Lisbon starting at just €1.50. If you’re into beaches, the Algarve provides sun, sand, and sea at a fraction of the cost of other Mediterranean hotspots.
Portugal combines culture, history, food, and natural beauty—making it a perfect destination for Irish travelers on a budget.
Pros:
- Cheap direct flights from Dublin, Cork, and Shannon.
- Sunny beaches in Algarve with low costs outside summer.
- Affordable local food like seafood and pastries.
- Rich history and cultural cities (Lisbon, Porto).
Cons:
- Popular destinations can get crowded in peak season.
- Accommodation prices rise significantly in July–August.
- Inland transport between regions can be slower compared to Western Europe.
✈️ Flights: Dublin → Lisbon Flights | Cork → Porto Deals | Shannon → Faro Flights
🏨 Hotels: Lisbon Hotel Deals | Porto Budget Stays | Algarve Beach Hotels
2. Spain
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Spain is another top pick for Irish travelers seeking affordable holidays. With multiple airports in Dublin, Cork, and Shannon offering budget flights to cities like Barcelona, Madrid, Valencia, and Seville, you can often snag return tickets for under €100. The competition between airlines like Ryanair, Aer Lingus, and Iberia means flights are consistently cheap year-round.
Spain is a diverse country where costs vary depending on the region. Cities like Barcelona and Madrid can be pricier, but if you head to Granada, Seville, or Valencia, you’ll find far cheaper options. In Granada, for example, you can enjoy free tapas with every drink—so your dinner might cost no more than a few euros. Hostels range from €12–€25 per night, while budget hotels often start at €40.
Transport in Spain is also wallet-friendly. Long-distance buses are much cheaper than trains, and within cities, you can rely on metros or even just walk. Attractions like the Alhambra in Granada or Seville’s Alcázar may cost around €10–€15, but many museums and cultural sites are free on certain days.
Whether you want to explore Andalusian charm, lounge on Mediterranean beaches, or dive into buzzing city nightlife, Spain offers an affordable getaway for every type of traveler.
Pros:
- Plenty of low-cost flights from Ireland to multiple Spanish cities.
- Affordable meals, especially in Andalusia where tapas are often free with drinks.
- Wide variety of destinations: beaches, cities, and countryside.
- Reliable public transport at low cost.
Cons:
- Popular cities like Barcelona and Madrid can be expensive.
- Tourist hotspots suffer from overcrowding in summer.
- Some regions charge high entry fees for attractions.
✈️ Flights: Dublin → Barcelona Flights | Cork → Madrid Deals | Shannon → Seville Flights
🏨 Hotels: Barcelona Stays | Madrid Hotel Offers | Seville Budget Hotels
3. Poland
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Poland is one of Europe’s cheapest and most rewarding destinations. Flights from Dublin to Kraków or Warsaw often cost under €50, especially if you book with Ryanair. Once you land, you’ll notice how far your money stretches compared to Western Europe.
Accommodation in Poland is incredibly affordable. Hostels can be found for as little as €10 per night, and budget hotels rarely exceed €40. Meals in traditional Polish restaurants cost around €5–€8, with hearty portions that keep you full for hours. Street food like pierogi (dumplings) or zapiekanka (Polish-style pizza bread) is not only delicious but also dirt cheap.
Poland is also rich in history and culture. You can visit Kraków’s medieval Old Town, explore Warsaw’s rebuilt city center, or take a day trip to Auschwitz for a deeply moving historical experience. Many attractions, like churches, town squares, and parks, are free to enter. Even major museums cost around €5–€10.
Public transport in Poland is efficient and inexpensive, with metro, tram, and bus tickets costing under €1. Taxis and ride-hailing services are also budget-friendly. For Irish travelers, Poland provides a perfect mix of history, culture, nightlife, and affordability.
Pros:
- Very low cost of living compared to Ireland.
- Cheap hostels, hotels, and restaurants.
- Rich history, including Kraków Old Town and Auschwitz.
- Efficient and affordable public transport.
Cons:
- Winters can be extremely cold and less tourist-friendly.
- English is less common outside major cities.
- Some cultural attractions can feel repetitive if traveling long-term.
✈️ Flights: Dublin → Kraków Cheap | Cork → Warsaw Deals | Shannon → Gdańsk Flights
🏨 Hotels: Kraków Old Town Stays | Warsaw Budget Hotels | Gdańsk Seaside Hotels
4. Hungary
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Hungary, particularly Budapest, has become one of Europe’s favorite budget travel destinations. Flights from Dublin to Budapest are very affordable, often around €40–€70 return. Once you arrive, you’ll quickly realize why Budapest is known as a budget-friendly gem.
Accommodation in Budapest is cheap and diverse. You can find hostels starting at €10–€15 per night, while mid-range hotels cost about €40–€60. Eating out is also inexpensive, with traditional Hungarian meals like goulash available for €5–€8. Street food markets and bakeries make it easy to grab a quick, cheap meal.
Budapest is packed with affordable attractions. The famous thermal baths, like Széchenyi, cost around €15 for a full day of relaxation. Walking tours of the city are often free (with tips), and you can admire landmarks like the Parliament Building, Fisherman’s Bastion, and Buda Castle at no cost. The nightlife is another highlight, especially the unique ruin pubs, where drinks are much cheaper than in Ireland.
Public transport in Budapest is highly affordable, with metro rides costing just over €1. You can even buy a 24-hour transport pass for under €5, making it easy to explore the entire city. For culture, history, relaxation, and vibrant nightlife—all on a budget—Hungary is a fantastic choice for Irish travelers.
Pros:
- Dublin to Budapest flights are very affordable.
- Cheap accommodation and street food.
- Thermal baths in Budapest are unique and budget-friendly.
- Vibrant nightlife with low drink prices.
Cons:
- Budapest is becoming more touristy, raising some prices.
- Limited budget airline connections outside the capital.
- Hungarian language can be difficult for travelers.
✈️ Flights: Dublin → Budapest Flights | Cork → Budapest Deals | Shannon → Budapest Cheap
🏨 Hotels: Budapest City Hotels | Danube River Stays | Budapest Budget Hostels
5. Czech Republic
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The Czech Republic, particularly Prague, is a budget traveler’s paradise. With Ryanair and Aer Lingus offering cheap flights from Dublin to Prague, you can often find deals for under €60. Once there, you’ll discover that daily expenses are much lower than in Western Europe.
Prague is famous for its affordable beer—often costing less than €2 in local pubs. Meals in traditional Czech restaurants typically range from €6–€10, with hearty dishes like goulash, pork knuckle, and dumplings. Accommodation is also reasonably priced, with hostels starting at €12 per night and budget hotels averaging €35–€50.
When it comes to sightseeing, Prague offers countless free or cheap attractions. Stroll across Charles Bridge, explore the historic Old Town Square, or hike up to Prague Castle for panoramic views. Many of the city’s iconic spots can be enjoyed without spending a cent. Walking tours are also a popular and inexpensive way to learn about the city’s history.
Transport in Prague is easy and cheap, with metro and tram tickets costing just over €1. If you’re staying longer, multi-day passes are even more cost-effective. Overall, the Czech Republic combines medieval charm, rich history, and low costs—making it a perfect destination for Irish budget travelers.
Pros:
- Prague is budget-friendly with cheap beer and hearty meals.
- Many free attractions like Charles Bridge and Old Town.
- Excellent public transport at low cost.
- Rich medieval history and architecture.
Cons:
- Prague can get overcrowded, especially in summer.
- Prices are higher than neighboring Slovakia or Poland.
- Some areas are highly commercialized for tourists.
✈️ Flights: Dublin → Prague Flights | Cork → Prague Deals | Shannon → Prague Cheap
🏨 Hotels: Prague Old Town Hotels | Charles Bridge Stays | Prague Budget Hostels
6. Lithuania
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Lithuania might not be the first country that comes to mind when planning a budget trip, but it’s one of the cheapest destinations from Ireland. Thanks to Ryanair, you can grab flights to Vilnius or Kaunas for as little as €30–€50 if you book early. Lithuania’s capital, Vilnius, is a beautiful blend of history, culture, and affordability, making it perfect for travelers looking to explore something different.
Accommodation in Lithuania is very budget-friendly, with hostels available for around €10–€15 per night and budget hotels ranging between €25–€40. Dining out is also inexpensive, with meals in local restaurants costing €5–€8. Street food stalls and markets are popular for grabbing snacks at €2–€3, which is much cheaper than eating out in Ireland.
When it comes to sightseeing, Lithuania offers plenty of affordable or free activities. Wander through Vilnius Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, or visit Trakai Castle, located on a picturesque lake, for just a small entry fee. The country is also rich in natural beauty, with hiking trails, lakes, and forests that cost nothing to enjoy.
Public transport is another bonus for travelers. Buses and trolleybuses in Vilnius cost less than €1 per ride, making it easy to get around without spending much. If you’re looking for a cultural, historic, and budget-friendly escape from Ireland, Lithuania should be high on your list.
Pros:
- Very cheap flights with Ryanair from Dublin.
- Budget-friendly accommodation and meals.
- Stunning Old Towns and natural landscapes.
- Small, walkable cities that are easy to explore.
Cons:
- Fewer direct flights compared to other destinations.
- Smaller cities may lack nightlife compared to Western Europe.
- Winters are long and cold.
✈️ Flights: Dublin → Vilnius Cheap | Cork → Kaunas Flights | Shannon → Vilnius Deals
🏨 Hotels: Vilnius Old Town Hotels | Kaunas Budget Stays | Lithuania Cheap Hotels
7. Romania
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Romania is one of Europe’s most underrated yet affordable destinations. Flights from Dublin to Bucharest can often be found for €40–€70, especially with budget airlines like Ryanair. Once you arrive, you’ll quickly notice how much cheaper things are compared to Western Europe.
Accommodation in Romania is very cheap, with hostels costing around €10–€15 per night and budget hotels averaging €25–€40. Food is equally affordable, with traditional Romanian dishes like “sarmale” (cabbage rolls) or “mici” (grilled meat rolls) costing as little as €5–€7 per meal. Even a three-course dinner in a mid-range restaurant rarely costs more than €15.
Romania is packed with attractions that don’t cost much. Bucharest offers a mix of modern and historic sights, while Transylvania is home to castles, mountains, and charming medieval towns. Bran Castle, often referred to as “Dracula’s Castle,” costs around €10 for entry, and hiking in the Carpathian Mountains is free.
Transport in Romania is another money-saver. Trains and buses are cheap, and even long-distance travel between cities is affordable. Taxis and ride-hailing services cost far less than in Ireland. Romania is perfect for Irish travelers looking for culture, history, and nature—all at a fraction of the cost of Western Europe.
Pros:
- Extremely cheap food and accommodation.
- Rich cultural sites like Transylvania and Bran Castle.
- Affordable mountain hiking and countryside tours.
- Bucharest is lively with low-cost nightlife.
Cons:
- Transport infrastructure can be slow.
- Language barrier in rural areas.
- Winters can be harsh for travel.
✈️ Flights: Dublin → Bucharest Flights | Cork → Cluj Deals | Shannon → Bucharest Cheap
🏨 Hotels: Bucharest City Hotels | Cluj Budget Stays | Transylvania Guesthouses
8. Bulgaria
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Bulgaria offers incredible value for Irish travelers, whether you’re looking for a beach holiday or a cultural city break. Flights from Dublin to Sofia are often priced at €50–€80, and once you arrive, you’ll find that everything from food to accommodation is budget-friendly.
If you’re after sun and sand, Bulgaria’s Black Sea resorts, such as Sunny Beach and Golden Sands, provide affordable alternatives to Spain or Italy. Budget hotels near the coast can cost as little as €20–€30 per night. If you prefer a cultural trip, Sofia and Plovdiv offer rich history, beautiful architecture, and low prices. Hostels in Sofia cost around €8–€12, while budget hotels range from €25–€40.
Food in Bulgaria is also cheap, with meals costing between €5–€10. Traditional Bulgarian dishes like banitsa (cheese-filled pastry) and shopska salad are both delicious and affordable. Nightlife in Bulgaria is very lively, and drinks are significantly cheaper than in Ireland.
Attractions are either free or very inexpensive. You can explore ancient Roman ruins, Orthodox churches, and open-air markets without spending much. Public transport in cities is also cheap, with tickets costing less than €1. Whether you want a beach getaway or a cultural escape, Bulgaria gives you excellent value for your money.
Pros:
- Very cheap seaside resorts on the Black Sea.
- Sofia and Plovdiv offer history and culture at low cost.
- Budget-friendly meals and drinks.
- Affordable nightlife and attractions.
Cons:
- Some resorts attract rowdy crowds.
- Infrastructure in smaller towns can be outdated.
- Limited English spoken outside tourist areas.
✈️ Flights: Dublin → Sofia Flights | Cork → Varna Deals | Shannon → Plovdiv Flights
🏨 Hotels: Sofia City Hotels | Varna Beach Stays | Cheap Hotels in Plovdiv
9. Slovakia
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Slovakia is another hidden gem for budget-conscious Irish travelers. Flights from Dublin to Bratislava, often under €50 with Ryanair, make it one of the cheapest options in Central Europe. Bratislava, the capital, is compact, charming, and much cheaper than nearby Vienna or Prague.
Accommodation in Slovakia is budget-friendly, with hostels available from €10–€15 per night and hotels starting at €30–€40. Dining is also inexpensive, with hearty Slovak meals costing around €6–€10. You’ll find plenty of cafes and bakeries where you can grab cheap snacks and coffee.
Bratislava itself is full of attractions that won’t hurt your wallet. The Old Town is perfect for wandering, with cobblestone streets, quirky statues, and historic squares. Bratislava Castle, offering panoramic views of the city, costs only a few euros to enter. Many museums and galleries are either free or very cheap.
Slovakia is also great for nature lovers. The High Tatras Mountains provide excellent hiking and skiing opportunities at far lower prices than the Alps. Public transport within the city and to other regions is cheap and reliable, with bus and tram tickets costing less than €1.
For Irish travelers, Slovakia is an excellent option for a short, affordable city break or a longer adventure into the mountains.
Pros:
- Cheap direct flights to Bratislava from Dublin.
- Budget-friendly food and drink compared to Ireland.
- Great mountain scenery for hiking at low cost.
- Compact capital city that’s easy to explore.
Cons:
- Limited attractions compared to larger countries.
- Fewer flight options than nearby Prague or Budapest.
- Tourist services less developed outside the capital.
✈️ Flights: Dublin → Bratislava Flights | Cork → Bratislava Deals | Shannon → Bratislava Cheap
🏨 Hotels: Bratislava Old Town Hotels | Danube Riverside Stays | Bratislava Budget Hostels
10. Croatia
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Croatia is famous for its stunning coastline, historic towns, and beautiful islands. While Dubrovnik can be pricey during peak season, Croatia can be a surprisingly affordable destination for Irish travelers—especially if you visit in the off-season. Flights from Dublin to Split or Dubrovnik can be found for around €60–€100, depending on the season.
Accommodation in Croatia is cheaper outside the main tourist hotspots. Budget hostels and guesthouses start at €15–€20 per night, and family-run apartments (known as “sobe”) can be found for €30–€50. If you travel in spring or autumn, prices drop significantly compared to July and August.
Food in Croatia can be affordable if you eat where the locals do. A meal in a casual restaurant costs around €7–€12, and fresh seafood is often much cheaper than in Western Europe. Local markets are also a great way to eat cheaply while experiencing authentic Croatian culture.
Attractions include Dubrovnik’s Old Town walls, Split’s Diocletian’s Palace, and Plitvice Lakes National Park. Entry fees can range from €5–€20, but many towns and beaches are free to explore. Ferries between islands are relatively cheap, making island-hopping possible on a budget.
Public transport, including buses and ferries, is affordable and well-connected. Overall, Croatia combines natural beauty, culture, and affordability—making it a fantastic budget destination for Irish travelers.
Pros:
- Beautiful Adriatic coastline and islands.
- Affordable guesthouses outside peak season.
- Stunning UNESCO towns like Dubrovnik and Split.
- Cheap ferry services for island hopping.
Cons:
- Prices rise sharply in July and August.
- Dubrovnik can feel overpriced and overcrowded.
✈️ Flights: Dublin → Split Cheap | Cork → Dubrovnik Deals | Shannon → Zadar Flights
🏨 Hotels: Split Seaside Hotels | Dubrovnik Old Town Stays | Zadar Budget Hotels
11. Morocco
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If you’re looking for an exotic destination that’s still affordable, Morocco is a fantastic option for Irish travelers. Thanks to budget airlines, you can find direct flights from Dublin to Marrakech for as little as €70–€120 round trip. Once you arrive, you’ll quickly see how far your euros stretch compared to Europe.
Accommodation in Morocco is cheap and diverse. Traditional riads (guesthouses) in Marrakech cost between €15–€30 per night, offering authentic Moroccan hospitality and beautiful architecture. Hostels can be found for as little as €8–€12 per night, making it easy to stay on budget.
Food in Morocco is another highlight of budget travel. Street food like kebabs, couscous, tagine, and fresh orange juice can cost just €1–€3. Even a sit-down meal in a restaurant usually costs no more than €7–€10. Exploring the vibrant souks (markets) is free unless you decide to shop—and even then, bargaining helps you get great deals.
Attractions in Morocco are surprisingly affordable. Entry to palaces and gardens in Marrakech costs around €5, while guided desert tours to the Sahara start at €50–€80 for multi-day trips (including meals and accommodation). For those who love nature, hiking in the Atlas Mountains is both cheap and breathtaking.
Transport within Morocco is also inexpensive. Local buses and trains connect major cities like Marrakech, Casablanca, and Fes, costing only a fraction of what you’d pay in Europe. Morocco offers Irish travelers a completely different cultural experience at an incredibly low cost.
Pros:
- Very cheap cost of living compared to Europe.
- Colorful souks, gardens, and desert tours at low cost.
- Street food is both cheap and delicious.
- Unique cultural experience beyond Europe.
Cons:
- Language barrier (Arabic and French are dominant).
- Hustling in markets can be overwhelming for tourists.
- Hot summers make some areas uncomfortable.
✈️ Flights: Dublin → Marrakech Flights | Cork → Casablanca Deals | Shannon → Marrakech Cheap
🏨 Hotels: Marrakech Riad Deals | Casablanca City Hotels | Morocco Budget Stays
12. Turkey
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Turkey is a destination where East meets West, offering rich history, vibrant culture, and affordability. Flights from Dublin to Istanbul are often available for €100–€150, and once you’re there, daily expenses are far lower than in Ireland.
Accommodation in Turkey is very budget-friendly. In Istanbul, hostels start at €10–€15 per night, and budget hotels range from €20–€40. In coastal towns like Antalya or Bodrum, you can find guesthouses and pensions for even less, especially if you travel off-season.
Food in Turkey is another highlight. Street food is delicious and cheap, with simit (sesame bread rings), kebabs, and baklava available for €1–€3. Dining in traditional restaurants rarely costs more than €10 per meal. Turkish tea and coffee are both inexpensive and an essential part of the local culture.
Attractions in Istanbul include the Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, and Grand Bazaar—many of which are free or cost less than €10. Exploring the Bosphorus on a ferry costs only a few euros and gives you stunning views of the city. Outside Istanbul, you can visit Cappadocia for its unique landscapes or the beaches along the Aegean coast without spending a fortune.
Public transport in Turkey is cheap and efficient, with metro and tram tickets costing around €0.50–€1. Long-distance buses are also affordable, making it easy to explore multiple cities on a budget. Turkey offers Irish travelers an incredible mix of history, culture, and natural beauty—without breaking the bank.
Pros:
- Affordable flights and cheap daily expenses.
- Wide variety of destinations: Istanbul, Cappadocia, beaches.
- Delicious street food for under €3.
- Excellent value for money on attractions.
Cons:
- Longer flight than most European destinations.
- Some regions may have safety concerns.
- Tourist scams in Istanbul’s busy areas.
✈️ Flights: Dublin → Istanbul Flights | Cork → Antalya Cheap | Shannon → Bodrum Flights
🏨 Hotels: Istanbul City Hotels | Antalya Beach Stays | Cappadocia Cave Hotels
13. Serbia
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Serbia is one of Europe’s most underrated and cheapest destinations. Flights from Dublin to Belgrade are available for around €70–€120, and once you land, you’ll find that daily expenses are some of the lowest in Europe.
Accommodation in Belgrade is extremely affordable, with hostels costing around €8–€12 per night and budget hotels starting at €20–€35. Even centrally located guesthouses are much cheaper than their Western European counterparts.
Food and drinks in Serbia are very budget-friendly. You can enjoy a hearty meal for €5–€8, while local bakeries sell pastries for under €1. Belgrade is also famous for its nightlife, with clubs and bars where drinks cost a fraction of what you’d pay in Ireland.
Attractions in Serbia include Belgrade Fortress, Skadarlija (the bohemian quarter), and the Danube River promenade—all of which can be explored for free. Museums and galleries usually cost just a few euros. If you love nature, Serbia offers affordable hiking in the Tara Mountains and day trips along the Danube.
Public transport in Belgrade is cheap, with bus and tram tickets costing less than €1. Long-distance buses connect major cities and towns at very low prices. For Irish travelers looking for lively nightlife, rich culture, and a budget-friendly experience, Serbia is an excellent choice.
Pros:
- Very cheap nightlife and food.
- Belgrade offers vibrant culture at low cost.
- Free or inexpensive attractions like Belgrade Fortress.
- Great for off-the-beaten-path travelers.
Cons:
- Limited direct flight options from Ireland.
- Less developed tourism infrastructure.
- Not as many iconic attractions compared to neighboring countries.
✈️ Flights: Dublin → Belgrade Cheap | Cork → Belgrade Flights | Shannon → Belgrade Deals
🏨 Hotels: Belgrade City Hotels | Cheap Hotels in Serbia | Belgrade Riverfront Hotels
14. Albania
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Albania is quickly becoming one of Europe’s top budget travel destinations. With flights from Dublin to Tirana often available for €80–€120, it’s an affordable entry point to a country known for its natural beauty and low prices.
Accommodation in Albania is incredibly cheap. Hostels in Tirana and along the coast cost around €8–€12 per night, while budget hotels rarely exceed €25–€35. Guesthouses in smaller towns are even cheaper, and many include home-cooked meals.
Food in Albania is both delicious and affordable. A traditional meal costs around €5–€8, with fresh seafood along the coast often cheaper than in Ireland. Street food like “byrek” (savory pastry) can be found for less than €1.
Albania is famous for its stunning beaches along the Albanian Riviera, which are far less crowded and cheaper than those in Greece or Italy. Towns like Ksamil, Himara, and Saranda offer turquoise waters and affordable stays. Inland, you can explore Berat, known as the “City of a Thousand Windows,” and Gjirokastër, a UNESCO World Heritage town.
Transport in Albania is cheap, though not always the most organized. Buses and minibuses (called “furgons”) connect towns at very low prices, usually under €5 per trip. For Irish travelers, Albania is a hidden gem that offers beaches, mountains, and culture—all at bargain prices.
Pros:
- Stunning, budget-friendly beaches along the Riviera.
- Very low prices for accommodation and food.
- Authentic, less touristy culture compared to Greece.
- Scenic mountains and UNESCO towns.
Cons:
- Transport system can be confusing and unreliable.
- Fewer direct flight options from Ireland.
- Tourist facilities are still developing.
✈️ Flights: Dublin → Tirana Cheap | Cork → Tirana Flights | Shannon → Tirana Deals
🏨 Hotels: Tirana City Hotels | Albanian Riviera Stays | Albania Budget Guesthouses
15. Greece
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Greece might sound expensive, but it can actually be very affordable if you plan carefully. Flights from Dublin to Athens or Thessaloniki are often available for €80–€130, and if you visit in the off-season (spring or autumn), you’ll save even more on accommodation and activities.
Accommodation in Greece varies depending on the location. Hostels in Athens start at €12–€15 per night, while budget hotels cost around €30–€50. On the islands, guesthouses are cheap outside peak summer, with prices starting at €25–€35.
Food in Greece is another budget-friendly highlight. You can enjoy gyros or souvlaki for just €2–€3, and meals in traditional tavernas often cost €7–€12. Sharing meze plates is not only affordable but also a great way to experience Greek cuisine.
Attractions in Greece include the Acropolis in Athens (€10–€20 depending on the season), ancient ruins, and beautiful beaches. Many museums and archaeological sites are free on certain days of the month. If you’re into island-hopping, ferries are reasonably priced, especially for the less touristy islands like Naxos or Paros.
Public transport in Greece is cheap and reliable, with metro tickets in Athens costing around €1.50. Buses and ferries connect cities and islands affordably. Greece gives Irish travelers the chance to enjoy history, culture, and stunning beaches without overspending.
Pros:
- Rich history and iconic ruins at affordable prices.
- Cheap traditional food like gyros and souvlaki.
- Budget-friendly if traveling off-season.
- Stunning islands and beaches.
Cons:
- Prices rise significantly in peak summer months.
- Popular islands (Santorini, Mykonos) are costly.
- Ferries can add up if island-hopping frequently.
✈️ Flights: Dublin → Athens Flights | Cork → Thessaloniki Cheap | Shannon → Crete Deals
🏨 Hotels: Athens Acropolis Hotels | Thessaloniki City Stays | Crete Beach Resorts
Travel Tips for Irish Budget Travelers
Finding cheap destinations is only half the journey—knowing how to save money while traveling is just as important. Here are some practical tips:
- Book flights early – The best deals are usually available 2–3 months in advance. Budget airlines like Ryanair and Wizz Air often have flash sales.
- Travel off-season – Visiting in spring or autumn can cut your expenses in half compared to summer.
- Stay in hostels or guesthouses – These are not only cheaper but often include free breakfast.
- Eat like a local – Street food and local markets are much cheaper than tourist restaurants.
- Use public transport – Trains, buses, and trams are far cheaper than taxis.
- Look for free attractions – Many museums and landmarks are free on certain days.
- Travel light – Avoid paying for checked luggage by packing smart.
Following these tips will help you stretch your travel budget even further, allowing you to visit more countries without spending a fortune.
Conclusion
Traveling from Ireland doesn’t have to be expensive. With so many affordable destinations nearby, you can explore historic cities, sunny beaches, and vibrant cultures without draining your savings. From Portugal’s charming towns to Greece’s ancient ruins, each country on this list offers unique experiences at budget-friendly prices.
Whether you’re planning a weekend escape or a longer adventure, these 15 cheapest countries to visit from Ireland prove that travel is possible for everyone—no matter the budget. With a little planning, you’ll discover that the world is much closer and more affordable than you think.
FAQs
1. Which country is the cheapest to visit from Ireland?
Poland and Lithuania are often the cheapest due to low-cost flights and very affordable daily expenses.
2. What is the best time to book flights from Ireland?
Booking 2–3 months in advance usually gives you the best deals. Mid-week flights are often cheaper.
3. Are hostels safe for Irish travelers abroad?
Yes, hostels are generally safe, especially in Europe. Always check reviews before booking.
4. Can I visit multiple cheap countries in one trip?
Absolutely! Many countries on this list are close together, making multi-country trips affordable.
5. How much money should I budget per day in these countries?
On average, €30–€50 per day covers accommodation, meals, transport, and attractions in most of these destinations.