Top 10 Cheapest European Cities to Fly Into

Dreaming of a European escape without draining your savings? You're not alone. With charming towns, iconic landmarks, and vibrant cultures packed into a relatively small area, Europe continues to be a top pick for travelers worldwide. But flying there doesn’t have to cost a fortune. The good news? You can explore Europe on a budget — starting with your plane ticket.

Knowing the cheapest European cities to fly to can help you save hundreds before you even leave the airport. Whether you're a backpacker on a shoestring or simply love a smart travel deal, this list is for you. We’ve rounded up the cheapest flight destinations in Europe based on recent airfare data and trends, so you can stretch your travel budget further.

Let’s dive in and discover the cheapest flight destination Europe has to offer this year.

1. Lisbon, Portugal

Average Roundtrip Fare: $510

Price Change from Last Year: -12%

Lisbon has become a go-to cheapest flight destination Europe enthusiasts rave about. With stunning viewpoints, tiled streets, and a lively food scene, Portugal’s capital is not only beautiful but budget-friendly. Lisbon’s Humberto Delgado Airport is well-connected to both the US and the rest of Europe, often offering some of the best deals year-round.

Budget Tip: Skip the taxis and use Lisbon’s affordable public trams and metros to explore like a local.

2. Madrid, Spain

Average Roundtrip Fare: $520

Price Change from Last Year: -9%

As one of the major airline hubs in Europe, Madrid consistently ranks among the cheapest European cities to fly to from North America. With tapas bars on every corner, regal architecture, and free museum days, you’ll stretch your dollar further in Spain’s capital.

Budget Tip: Visit during late winter or early spring when prices are lower and crowds are fewer.

3. Dublin, Ireland

Average Roundtrip Fare: $530

Price Change from Last Year: -15%

Dublin’s well-connected airport makes it a prime entry point for travelers seeking a cheapest flight destination Europe offers. Carriers like Aer Lingus and Ryanair often offer competitive fares. Once you land, you’ll find friendly locals, cozy pubs, and free national museums.

Budget Tip: Book in the shoulder season (March–May or September–October) for the best flight and accommodation deals.

4. Warsaw, Poland

Average Roundtrip Fare: $540

Price Change from Last Year: -8%

Poland’s capital may not be the first name that pops into your head, but Warsaw is quietly becoming one of the cheapest flight destinations Europe travelers are catching onto. It’s not just affordable to fly into — the city itself offers tremendous value, with budget eats, historical charm, and modern flair.

Budget Tip: Use Poland’s extensive train network to hop between cities at minimal cost.

5. Budapest, Hungary

Average Roundtrip Fare: $545

Price Change from Last Year: -11%

Budapest has long been a darling of budget travelers, and its airfare prices remain impressively low. With thermal spas, ruin pubs, and riverside views, it’s no wonder Budapest ranks high among the cheapest European cities to fly to. Pair that with cheap eats and scenic walks, and you’ve got a dream trip.

Budget Tip: Buy a Budapest Card for free public transport and discounts at attractions.

6. Prague, Czech Republic

Average Roundtrip Fare: $550

Price Change from Last Year: -10%

Romantic, walkable, and historically rich, Prague is another great pick if you’re looking for the cheapest flight destination Europe has on offer. Flights to Vaclav Havel Airport tend to be cheaper compared to nearby cities, especially in off-peak months.

Budget Tip: Take free walking tours to explore Old Town and its famous landmarks.

7. Milan, Italy

Average Roundtrip Fare: $560

Price Change from Last Year: -7%

While Italy is often considered expensive, Milan’s international airport (MXP) is a hotspot for low-cost transatlantic flights, thanks to budget-friendly carriers like Neos and Air Italy. Milan is a smart base for those looking to explore northern Italy while saving on airfare.

Budget Tip: From Milan, catch budget trains to Lake Como, Bergamo, or even Switzerland.

8. Berlin, Germany

Average Roundtrip Fare: $565

Price Change from Last Year: -5%

Germany’s capital is not just rich in culture and history, but it’s also a frequent flier on lists of cheapest European cities to fly to. Thanks to high competition among airlines, flights to Berlin Brandenburg Airport are often affordable. Once in the city, you’ll enjoy endless free outdoor attractions and a hip arts scene.

Budget Tip: Travel with a Berlin WelcomeCard for transport and discounts at 200+ attractions.

9. Oslo, Norway

Average Roundtrip Fare: $570

Price Change from Last Year: -14%

Though Norway is pricey once you're there, Oslo often appears on lists of cheapest flight destinations Europe travelers can score, thanks to low-cost airlines like Norwegian Air. The savings on airfare can offset some of the country’s higher prices.

Budget Tip: Enjoy Oslo’s many free outdoor sites, like the Vigeland Sculpture Park or the fjord views from Aker Brygge.

10. Brussels, Belgium

Average Roundtrip Fare: $575

Price Change from Last Year: -6%

Brussels is a fantastic gateway city to the rest of Europe and often overlooked, which means airfare stays low. As a political and cultural hub, it’s worth more than just a stopover. Plus, Brussels Airport is serviced by many low-cost European airlines, making onward travel even more budget-friendly.

Budget Tip: Buy a rail pass and explore nearby cities like Bruges or Ghent for a fraction of the cost of internal flights.

Additional Money-Saving Tips for Flying to Europe

Even if you’re not flying into one of the cities above, here are ways to score cheaper flights to Europe:

1. Be Flexible with Dates

Flights departing mid-week (especially Tuesdays and Wednesdays) tend to be cheaper. Use fare calendars to spot deals.

2. Use Budget Airlines

Low-cost carriers like Norwegian, PLAY Airlines, and LEVEL offer major savings — just be mindful of baggage fees.

3. Fly into One City, Out from Another

Open-jaw tickets are often cheaper and let you explore more without backtracking.

4. Book 2–3 Months in Advance

Prices will increase when the departure date comes closer. Booking early ensures you catch the best fares, especially for the cheapest flight destinations Europe offers.

5. Consider Alternative Airports

Major hubs like Paris or London can be pricey. Smaller airports nearby may offer cheaper flights with convenient ground transport options.

Conclusion

Scoring a great deal on airfare is one of the smartest ways to make your European vacation more affordable. By targeting the cheapest European cities to fly to, you can stretch your travel budget, discover new destinations, and still enjoy the magic of Europe without financial stress.

From Lisbon’s sunny coast to Prague’s medieval streets, these destinations offer more than just a cheap flight; they provide unforgettable experiences on a budget.

So why wait? Start planning your next adventure by booking a flight to one of these cheapest flight destinations Europe has to offer. Your wallet (and wanderlust) will thank you.