Planning a summer trip to Europe but scared of big crowds and high prices? August is a great time to travel, but popular spots can be packed and expensive. You want a getaway that’s easy on your wallet, relaxing, and full of unique places to explore, right? I totally get it, and I’m here to help you find the perfect destination that feels like a hidden treasure!
In this blog post, I’m sharing my top five picks for affordable European getaways in August, all costing under £150 for a short trip. These places are less crowded, so you can enjoy your vacation without feeling rushed or stuck in lines. I’ll explain why each spot is special, fun things to do, and how to keep your trip super cheap. From quiet beaches to charming towns, let’s dive into a summer adventure you’ll love!
Why Travel to Europe in August?
August brings warm, sunny days to Europe, making it perfect for exploring new places. But it’s also when many cities get super busy with tourists. That’s why I’ve picked destinations that are off the beaten path, giving you a mix of culture, nature, and good food without the chaos. Plus, I’ll share tips to keep your flights, stays, and activities under £150, so you can focus on making memories!
1. Ljubljana, Slovenia
Ljubljana feels like a secret you want to tell everyone about. This small capital city in Slovenia has colorful buildings, a peaceful river, and a cozy vibe. In August, it’s warm but not overrun with tourists. You can wander the car-free streets, sip coffee by the river, or hike up to Ljubljana Castle for amazing views.
What to do: Walk through Tivoli Park, eat at a local market for £5, and join a free city tour.
Budget tip: Flights from the UK can be as low as £50 round-trip with budget airlines. Hostels or Airbnbs cost £20-30 per night. A weekend here? About £120 total!
2. Porto, Portugal
Porto is a sunny, welcoming city by the Douro River, known for its port wine and colorful streets. It’s way less crowded than Lisbon in August, and the mix of old buildings and lively energy feels so special. You’ll love walking the cobblestone paths and relaxing by the water.
What to do: Check out the gorgeous Livraria Lello bookstore, stroll the Ribeira district, and try a £3 francesinha sandwich.
Budget tip: Flights start at £40, and guesthouses are £25 per night. A weekend trip can stay under £140 with cheap meals and free sights.
3. Riga, Latvia
Riga is a stunning Baltic city with a fairy-tale Old Town and a cool, artsy vibe. August is warm, and it’s not as packed as other European cities. The colorful buildings and quiet squares make it a perfect spot to relax and explore.
What to do: Visit the House of the Blackheads, eat at the Central Market for £4, and take a £10 day trip to Jurmala’s beaches.
Budget tip: Flights from the UK are around £60, and hostels start at £15 per night. You can do a weekend for about £130.
4. Valletta, Malta
Valletta is a tiny, sunny city with golden stone buildings and sparkling sea views. It’s warm in August but less crowded than other Mediterranean spots. Walking its historic streets feels like stepping back in time.
What to do: See St. John’s Co-Cathedral, take a £8 boat ride, and eat a pastizzi pastry for under £1.
Budget tip: Flights start at £70, and budget hotels are £30 per night. A weekend trip costs around £145.
5. Krakow, Poland
Krakow is a vibrant city with a beautiful Old Town and tons of history. It’s lively in August but not as crowded as Prague. The main square is huge, and the food, like pierogi, is so affordable and delicious.
What to do: Explore Wawel Castle, wander the Jewish Quarter for free, and visit the Wieliczka Salt Mine for £15.
Budget tip: Flights are £50 round-trip, and hostels cost £15-20 per night. A weekend here is about £120.
Wrap-Up
You don’t need a big budget or crowded cities to enjoy Europe in August. Ljubljana, Porto, Riga, Valletta, and Krakow are perfect for a cheap, crowd-free getaway under £150. Book early, stay in budget spots, and eat local to save money. Grab your bag and pick one of these amazing places for a summer trip you’ll always remember. Where will you go first?