The Coolest Budget-Friendly Hotels in Europe

By Yasha Wallin, edited by Hamzeh Alfarahneh on 6.13.22

The first time I traveled to Europe, I tried to see as many cities and countries as humanly possible. A night in Lisbon here, an afternoon in Paris there, an unplanned beach stop in Barcelona, and so on. I bopped around to every destination I could because travel was so new and exciting, and I wanted to experience it all.

With summer right here, and after a long couple of years of staying put due to the Covid-19 pandemic, many of us have that travel bug again. That giddy feeling to get on the road and see it all. And with travel restrictions easing in most parts of Europe, the continent has come calling, ready to make your travel dreams a reality.

Lucky for us, there is also a slew of beautiful, budget-friendly hotels to explore so that your European vacation can last a little longer…

AMSTERDAM

Volkshotel

Amsterdam isn’t known for its affordable accommodation. That’s why finding this standout in one of the more exciting parts of the city feels like a real treat. Industrial yet incredibly cozy, the hotel meets everyone’s needs, whether it’s relaxing in one of the rooftop hot tubs or saunas, working away in the fully equipped lobby, or dancing to your heart’s content at the basement club.

Check out Xerxes Cook’s review of Volkshotel on A Hotel Life. 

Address: Wibautstraat 150, 1091 GR Amsterdam
Starting rate: € 111 
Visit website

Other great, affordable Amsterdam hotels: Sir Albert; Mr. Jordaan

ATHENS

DAVE Red Athens

Playful, urban, and quirky, this new-ish three-star hotel by the Brown Hotel group is in the center of Athens. It’s close to all the nightlife, flea markets, and more, and bookable for under 50 euros a night!

Address: Veranzerou 25, 104 32, Athina
Starting rate: € 47 
Visit website

Moon and Stars

Sleek, tastefully designed, and easy on the wallet, the Moon and Stars boutique hotel is within walking distance of Athen’s most beloved tourist attractions. This hotel’s comfortable beds, luxury bedding, and the rooms’ quirky names make this place a winner. 

Check out Camille Okhio’s review of Moon and Stars on A Hotel Life.

Address: Pl. Agion Asomaton 2, 105 54, Athina
Starting rate: € 126
Visit website

Another great, affordable Athens hotel: Ergon House

BARCELONA

Granados 83

This stunning, industrial-chic space features all the luxury one would hope for in a design hotel without paying luxury prices. Think rooftop pool, cocktails at the terrace bar, and a fascinating collection of Asian art throughout the property.

Address: : Carrer d’Enric Granados, 83, 08008 Barcelona
Starting rate: € 163 
Visit website

Casa Gracia

This property is more of a social club meets a place of rest; with its numerous bars, lounges, and nooks, Casa Gracia – located in Paseo de Gracia – is designed for visitors who want to explore the city and make local friends.

Address: Pg. de Gràcia, 116Bis, 08008 Barcelona
Starting rate: € 50
Visit website

ISTANBUL

The Bank Hotel 

This Design Hotel property mixes grandiose motifs with contemporary design and art, located in the art and design hub of Istanbul – technically on the Asian side of Istanbul (but give us a break); expect top-notch amenities including a hammam, gym, and restaurants but wallet-friendly.

Check out Polina Sova’s review of The Bank Hotel on A Hotel Life. 

Address: : Azapkapı, Bankalar Cd. No:5 D:1, 34421, İstanbul
Starting rate: ₺ 1,600 / € 89
Visit website

LISBON

Mama Shelter

This eclectic, newly opened gem between the Avenida da Liberdade and Principe Real is the perfect location to spend a few well-rested nights. Enjoy luxury bedding, plenty of food options, and rooftop drinks with unforgettable city views.

Address: R. do Vale de Pereiro 19, 1250-270 Lisboa
Starting rate: € 119 
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Other great, affordable Lisbon hotels: Independente Hostel & Suites; Casa do Patio by Shiadu

LONDON

Locke at Broken Wharf

With views of the Thames and South Bank, this apartment-style hotel will have you feeling right at home in the British capital, without any stuffiness. With co-working spaces, a gym, bar, and kitchenettes in most rooms, you’ll want to make yourself comfortable and stay awhile. Plus, when you book directly on their site, you’ll get 10% off.

Address: Broken Wharf House, 2 Broken Wharf, London
Starting rate: £118
Visit website

Another great, affordable London hotel: The Culpeper

PARIS

Hotel Les Deux Gares

Recently redesigned and beautifully renovated by none other than Luke Edward Hall – expect pattern on pattern on a splash of bold color, Hotel Les Deux Gares is situated smack bam in between two of Paris’ major train stations. This hotel is a great resting place for travelers passing through the city. Oh, a cross the street is a treat waiting for you in the form of a Cafe Les Deux Gares.

Check out Tansy Kaschak’s review of Hotel Les Deux Gares on A Hotel Life. 

Address: 2 Rue des Deux Gares, 75010 Paris 
Starting rate: € 112 
Visit website

Hotel Amour

With a vibe that lingers, this former brothel is incredibly intimate—with only 24 rooms designed chicly and differently. In one of the best locations in Paris, you’ve got Rue Des Martyrs and Pigalle around the corner, with entertainment for days.

Check out Polina Sova’s review of Hotel Amour on A Hotel Life. 

Address: 8 Rue de Navarin, 75009 Paris
Starting rate: € 119 
Visit website

Other great, affordable Paris hotels: Hotel Panache; Hotel Paradis

STOCKHOLM

Hotel With Urban Deli

In arguably the best part of Stockholm, with arguably one of the best delis and restaurants directly below, you’ll have everything at your fingertips. Plus, the hotel offers plenty of different accommodation options, so if you want to bunk with three people, you’ll have no problem here.

Address: Sveavägen 44, 111 34 Stockholm
Starting rate: 920 Swedish Krona /   € 87 
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Hotel Frantz 

This small family-owned hotel is full of character, with a rich history –named after the original 17th-century building owner and tailor Frank Bock. Expect tons of wit and personality at Hotel Frantz, where they expect you to “ Sweep bags and small problems under the bed.” 

Check out Polina Sova’s review of Hotel Frantz on A Hotel Life. 

Address: Peter Myndes backe 5, 116 46 Stockholm
Starting rate: 1430 Swedish Krona /  € 135 
Visit website

Another great, affordable Stockholm hotel: The Story Hotel

VENICE

Generator Hostel

Budget and Venice are hardly synonymous. That’s why we love this incredibly wallet-friendly option in a former warehouse turned design-forward hotel on the island of Giudecca.

Address: Fondamenta Zitelle, 86, 30133 Venezia
Starting rate: € 82 
Visit website

Another great, affordable Venice hotel: Hotel Indigo Venice – Sant’Elena

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