Summer is quickly approaching, and that means it’s time to start planning for your next big holiday. And with lots of sun on offer in Europe, it’s your perfect chance for a trip to see one of the world’s most famous cities. Just in case you needed another excuse for a fabulous summer break, we at KAYAK Hong Kong have analysed our search data and uncovered the top 10 cheapest destinations in Europe this summer for Hong Kongers along with some essential travel information, just for you.
There’s also the 10 Trending & Popular European Destinations For Your 2018 Summer Holidays and also where Europeans themselves are travelling to over the summer.
Top 10 Cheapest European Destinations This Summer
10. Moscow, Russia
Moscow is sometimes known as “The Third Rome” and it doesn’t disappoint. With the amazing architecture and history behind some of the buildings, it’s the perfect combination of contemporary mixed with historic. Everywhere from the Moscow Business District to the Red Square will have some beautiful building or park and a plethora of delicious Russian food options. You’ll be immersed in history everywhere you go, but you’ll also see the signs of modern-day tsars. The people of Moscow are welcoming and kind and can’t wait to show you everything their city has to offer.
9. Amsterdam, Netherlands
There are so many great reasons to visit Amsterdam and it really is a city with something for everyone. The capital of the Netherlands may be compact in comparison with other major European cities, but it packs a lot into a relatively small space. The Old Center and the Canal Ring are a must for history lovers, as are the world-class museums and galleries. Music fans flock to the city for its clubs and nightlife while its unique coffee shop culture is known all over the world. If cafes, coffee shops, and bars are of limited appeal, the city also boasts spacious parks, like Vondelpark in the center of the city, and Ooosterpark close to the Eastern Docklands. Amsterdam is popular with shoppers and fashion fans as well as with visitors who come for historic attractions like Anne Frank’s House and the scenic canals.
8. Zurich, Switzerland
Switzerland’s most dynamic city may be compact, but it doesn’t feel that way. Brimming with old world charm, full of luxury stores, Michelin-starred restaurants, world-class art galleries, and nightlife venues, Zurich has everything vacationers could ask for. Art lovers can spend whole days absorbed by the masterpieces on display in the Kunsthaus. Skiers can shop for luxury timepieces in the city center and be on the slopes in the afternoon. In the summer, you can rent a boat and explore Lake Zurich during the day, before taking your seat at the Opera House, and trying gourmet restaurants like Mesa in the evening. Zurich allows travelers to experience the beauty and sporting attractions of the Alps along with the attractions of an upscale, safe, and efficient world city. Not many cities can offer that kind of versatility, which is why so many people fall in love with this beautiful Swiss destination.
7. Athens, Greece
There aren’t many places in the world that can claim as much historical importance as Athens. The cradle of democracy. Home to the first theater. A center of philosophy. Athens has a lot to live up to, and it does so brilliantly. While you shouldn’t miss historical sights like the Agora or the Acropolis, modern Athens has much to offer vacationers, too. After taking a walking tour of the ancient ruins, you can dive into markets like Monastiraki, window shop at boutiques in Kolonaki, hop between galleries in Metaxourgeio, and dine out on healthy Greek dishes at wonderful neighborhood tavernas. Throw the vibrant nightlife and the chance to sunbathe at nearby resorts like Glyfada into the mix, and the result is a fascinating, dynamic, and hard-to-resist vacation destination.
6. Manchester, United Kingdom
It’s hardly surprising that Manchester finds itself listed among the world’s top 10 destinations. It’s the UK’s most visited city for overseas tourists after London. It’s also England’s “second city” and the unofficial “capital of the North”. Its vibrant arts scene, its stellar shopping and fine dining, its celebrity appeal, and its LGBT scene are all part of the city’s charm. Manchester is also a favorite with soccer fans, who come to see its two premier league teams in action. And of course, there’s the music and nightlife scene, cultural highlights like the Whitworth Art Gallery and the HOME Arts Centre, the bars and cafes, and the festivals and events that have shaped the modern face of one of the UK’s most vibrant cities.
5. Munich, Germany
Nestled in the heart of the Bavarian Alps, Munich combines historical elegance with down-to-earth charm. View timeless masterpieces from the world’s great painters, take a stroll down one of Europe’s best shopping streets, and rub elbows with the locals at a beer garden. For centuries, Munich has been a major center of art and commerce. You’ll find splendid baroque churches in the Old Town neighborhood and masterpieces by Leonardo da Vinci, Sandro Botticelli, and Vincent van Gogh in the Museum District. The world-famous Maximilianstrasse shopping district has high-end fashion houses like Chanel and Ralph Lauren, and the headquarters of car manufacturer BMW are in the suburbs. Munich is a very friendly and approachable city. You can sing along with an Oompah band in a crowded beer hall, or, if your taste runs to quieter pursuits, sunbathe in one of Munich’s many parks. Plus, you are only a few miles away from some of the highest peaks in the Bavarian Alps.
4. Vienna, Austria
Elegant, full of history, and a thriving food, nightlife, and cultural center, Vienna has everything vacationers could ever need. This stunning Central European gem is truly one of the world’s great cities.
Walk in the footsteps of Viennese greats like Sigmund Freud, Mozart, and the artist Egon Schiele. Watch a classical concert at the Musikverein or a spectacular opera at the Staatsoper after dining on succulent Wiener Schnitzel at restaurants like Reinthaler’s Beisl. Tour stunning palaces like Schönbrunn or spend all day at the massive Art History Museum with masterpieces by Vermeer and Velázquez. But Vienna isn’t all about concerts and art. You can shop at fashion boutiques in the Goldenes Quartier or dive into all-night dance clubs like Donau Techno. Whatever you love to do, you’ll adore Vienna.
3. Milan, Italy
Italy’s second-largest city is a delight for tourists. This elegant, efficient city has an excellent public transportation system, stunning architecture, world-famous works of art, and more designer boutiques than almost any city on earth. Milan offers an endless array of experiences. Attend February’s Milan Fashion Week to see the year’s new trends and watch the world’s elite designers in action. Visit a soccer match at San Siro Stadium, gaze at da Vinci’s “The Last Supper” and statues by Michelangelo, or stroll arm in arm along the canals of Navigli, checking out the antique stands, before choosing a welcoming trattoria for your evening meal. With a unique blend of art, fashion, great museums, sporting attractions, food, and street life, Milan has it all, and it’s a wonderful vacation spot.
2. Prague, Czech Republic
The glorious city of Prague is one of Europe’s great cultural and artistic capitals. Experience immaculately preserved castles, churches, and synagogues, a rich musical tradition, and hearty food and drink. Prague was spared from bombing raids during World War II, which means that its medieval old town has some of the best-preserved architecture in Europe. The winding, maze-like streets reveal new sights and sounds around every corner, whether it’s a string quartet playing a Mozart concerto or vivid reminders of Prague’s once-thriving Jewish population. Despite Prague’s high-culture reputation, it is a modern city with a friendly populace and surprisingly affordable prices compared to other major European destinations. You’ll find cheap hotels, great prices on antiques and collectibles, and local restaurants that serve traditional rib-sticking Czech cuisine. Prague is a premier vacation destination that will appeal to both experienced and new travelers. You’ll find all of the art, culture, and fine dining of cities like Paris or Berlin only on a smaller, more accessible scale.
1. Istanbul, Turkey
History buffs, foodies, adventurers: Istanbul could be your dream destination, and it tops our lisst of cheapest destinations in Europe this summer. This huge city lies at the crossroads between East and West, and the influences of its geographic location can be felt everywhere. From the spectacular Topkapi Palace of the Ottoman Sultan to the sublime domes and towers of the Hagia Sophia and the ruins of Greek, Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman cites, the past is everywhere in Istanbul – and it’s fascinating. Beyond sightseeing, Istanbul offers much more to adore. From the color and energy of the Grand Bazaar to the exquisite fabrics at boutiques like Haremlique, Istanbul is a great place to shop. The taste and aroma of a traditional Turkish kebab from restaurants like Asitane and the option of dancing the night away at the bars in Galata make clear: Istanbul has it all.
Note: These rates are based on search queries made on KAYAK.com.hk on 4 May, 2018. The prices are quoted in HKD. Flight prices are based on results for a return economy flight search. Hotel prices are for double occupancy and include taxes and fees. Prices are subject to change, may vary, or no longer be available.
