According to the annual City Costs Barometer study by Post Office Travel Money, Podgorica, the capital city of Montenegro, has been named the cheapest destination in Europe for 2022. The study compared the average cost of a city break in 48 cities across Europe, taking into account various factors such as accommodation, meals, drinks, sightseeing, and city transportation.
Affordable attractions
With an average cost of £47.22 for a two-night city break, Podgorica was the most affordable destination, knocking last year’s winner, Vilnius, off the top spot. In comparison, the average cost of a two-night stay in Paris was £360.52, making it the most expensive city on the list.
Podgorica has become increasingly popular with budget-conscious travellers due to its low cost of living and affordable attractions. The city offers plenty of historic sites, museums, and cultural experiences, including the 15th-century Ottoman clock tower, the Ribnica Fortress, and the Contemporary Art Centre of Montenegro. For full details, read our Ultimate Guide to Podgorica.
The city also has many cafes, bars, and restaurants where visitors can enjoy traditional Montenegrin cuisine at reasonable prices. Visitors can try local specialities such as priganice (deep-fried doughnuts), cicvara (cornmeal and cheese), and lamb cooked under the bell.
Access to other destinations
In addition to its low prices, Podgorica offers easy access to other popular tourist destinations in Montenegro, such as the coastal towns of Budva and Kotor. The city also has a good transportation system, with buses and taxis readily available.
Other affordable destinations on the list include Bucharest, Romania, at £49.15, and Belgrade, Serbia, at £57.16. However, it’s worth noting that the study was conducted before the COVID-19 pandemic, so prices may have changed since then.
Discovering Montenegro
Montenegro has a lot to offer travellers with its stunning natural scenery, historic sites, and charming coastal towns. From the beautiful Durmitor National Park to the picturesque Skadar Lake and the UNESCO-listed Bay of Kotor, there is something for everyone in this Balkan gem.
We encourage readers to explore more of Montenegro beyond Podgorica and discover all the country has to offer. With its affordability and diverse range of attractions, Montenegro is sure to leave visitors with unforgettable memories.
