10 Underrated European Cities That Are Cheaper (and Better) Than Paris in 2025

Paris is a dream destination—but let’s be honest: in 2025, the city is more crowded, more expensive, and harder to enjoy without waiting in lines for hours.

Luckily, Europe is full of underrated, romantic, culture-rich cities that offer Paris vibes without Paris prices. If you want cobblestone streets, historic architecture, café culture, incredible food, and budget-friendly travel, these 10 cities are perfect alternatives.

Here are the top underrated European cities to visit in 2025—cheaper, quieter, and in many ways, even better than Paris.

1. Ljubljana, Slovenia

Why it’s better & cheaper:

• Fairytale old town
• Greenest capital in Europe
• Affordable cafés along the river

What it feels like:

A peaceful, cleaner, and more relaxed version of Paris.

Top things to do:

• Ljubljana Castle
• Lake Bled (1-hour trip)
• Dragon Bridge
• Local farmer’s market

Average cost/day: $45–$70

2. Porto, Portugal

Why it’s better:

• Romantic riverside (like Paris’ Seine)
• Famous for wine, food, and views
• Great weather almost all year

What it feels like:

Paris cafés + Lisbon charm + half the price.

Top things to do:

• Douro River cruise
• Ribeira Square
• Port wine cellars
• Livraria Lello (world-famous bookstore)

Average cost/day: $50–$75

3. Kraków, Poland

Why it’s better:

• Beautiful medieval square
• Amazing bakery & café scene
• Extremely budget-friendly

What it feels like:

A historical European gem with artsy neighborhoods like Paris’ Montmartre.

Top things to do:

• Wawel Castle
• Old Town
• Jewish Quarter Kazimierz

Average cost/day: $40–$60

4. Bratislava, Slovakia

Why it’s better:

• Riverside views like Paris
• Cute pastel-colored streets
• Less crowded but highly photogenic

Top things to do:

• Bratislava Castle
• Old Town
• UFO observation deck

Average cost/day: $35–$55

5. Ghent, Belgium

Why it’s better:

• Perfect blend of modern + medieval
• Similar café culture to Paris
• Close to Brussels, Bruges & Antwerp

Top things to do:

• Gravensteen Castle
• Belfry of Ghent
• Canal boat tour

Average cost/day: $60–$85

6. Valencia, Spain

Why it’s better:

• Beaches + historic old town
• Cheaper & calmer than Barcelona
• Excellent food (home of paella)

What it feels like:

Parisian architecture mixed with seaside Mediterranean vibes.

Top things to do:

• City of Arts & Sciences
• Valencia Cathedral
• Malvarrosa Beach
• Old Town streets

Average cost/day: $50–$80

7. Sibiu, Romania

Why it’s better:

• Pastel-colored old town
• “Eyes of Sibiu” rooftops
• Romantic bridges & markets

What it feels like:

A quiet fairy-tale town with Vienna-style architecture—super cheap.

Top things to do:

• Council Tower
• Bridge of Lies
• ASTRA museum

Average cost/day: $30–$50

8. Sarajevo, Bosnia & Herzegovina

Why it’s better:

• One of Europe’s most unique cultural cities
• Coffee culture similar to Paris
• Stunning mountains around the city

What it feels like:

A mix of Vienna, Istanbul, and Paris—rich culture at a low cost.

Top things to do:

• Baščaršija Old Town
• Latin Bridge
• Sarajevo cable car

Average cost/day: $25–$40

9. Tbilisi, Georgia

Why it’s better:

• Bohemian cafés + wine culture
• Paris-style balconies everywhere
• Incredible local food

What it feels like:

Paris meets Istanbul with creative, artsy energy.

Top things to do:

• Old Tbilisi
• Narikala Fortress
• Sulfur baths
• Wine tasting

Average cost/day: $30–$55

10. Vilnius, Lithuania

Why it’s better:

• Baroque architecture everywhere
• Street art & hipster neighborhoods
• Very affordable stays

What it feels like:

A greener, calmer, cheaper version of Prague + Paris.

Top things to do:

• Gediminas Tower
• Užupis Art Republic
• Old Town

Average cost/day: $30–$50

Best Time to Visit These Cities

• Spring (April–June) – perfect weather, fewer crowds
• Fall (Sept–Oct) – beautiful colors + low prices
• Winter – magical Christmas markets (especially Kraków, Ghent, Ljubljana)

Why These Cities Are Better Value Than Paris

• Hotels are 40–70% cheaper
• Food costs 50% less on average
• Attractions have little to no entrance fees
• Public transport = extremely cheap
• You can explore without crowds or long lines
• Safer and more relaxed atmosphere

Budget Travel Tips for 2025

• Use eSIMs instead of roaming
• Book trains early for big savings
• Travel with carry-on only
• Stay in local guesthouses
• Eat at bakeries & local food markets
• Use public trams, buses, or bikes

Sample 5-Day Europe Trip Itinerary (Paris Alternative Tour)

Day 1–2: Ljubljana

Historic center, castle, Lake Bled day trip

Day 3: Ghent

Canals, medieval castle, craft beer

Day 4: Kraków

Old Town, cafes, Wawel Castle

Day 5: Bratislava

Riverside walk, pastel old town, castle views

Total estimated cost: $280–$450 only!

Conclusion

Paris will always be iconic, but if you want a beautiful, romantic, culturally rich European trip at a fraction of the cost, these underrated cities offer incredible value in 2025.

From medieval towns to riverside cafés, these destinations prove you don’t need to spend thousands to enjoy world-class travel experiences.

If you want more travel guides like this, explore more on Vistrilo.com 🌍✈️