5 cheap European countries to visit on a Schengen visa if you want to avoid protests in Spain

In recent months, several popular tourist destinations in Spain have witnessed protests by local residents. The demonstrations are a reaction to rising living costs, overcrowding, and pressure on housing caused by increasing tourist numbers. In cities like Barcelona and islands such as Mallorca and Tenerife, activists have called for restrictions on short‑term rentals and a rethink of how tourism is managed. The protests highlight growing tensions between the benefits of tourism and its impact on everyday life for locals.
Here are 5 cheap European countries to visit on a Schengen visa if you want to avoid protests in Spain.

Why visit? A beautiful city with thermal baths, historic castles, and affordable cafés.Top sights: Buda Castle, Széchenyi Thermal Bath, Danube River cruise.
Cost for Indians:

• Accommodation: ₹3,000–₹5,000 per night (3★ hotel)
• Meals: ₹600–₹1,000 per person/day
• Attractions: ₹1,000–₹2,000 per site
  Tips: Use the Budapest Travel Card for unlimited public transport. Try vegetarian-friendly spots like Hummus Bar.

Why visit? A mix of history, culture, and affordability.Top sights: Main Market Square, Wawel Castle, Auschwitz–Birkenau (day trip).
Cost for Indians:

• Accommodation: ₹2,500–₹4,000 per night
• Meals: ₹500–₹900 per person/day
• Attractions: ₹800–₹1,500 per site
  Tips: Book tickets for Auschwitz in advance. Indian restaurants offer vegetarian options.

Why visit? Fairy-tale architecture and walkable sights.Top sights: Charles Bridge, Old Town Square, Prague Castle.
Cost for Indians:

• Accommodation: ₹3,000–₹5,000 per night
• Meals: ₹600–₹1,000 per person/day
• Attractions: ₹500–₹1,500 per site
  Tips: The city is very walkable. Try vegetarian-friendly spots like Beas Dhaba.

Why visit? A quieter, charming capital with low prices.Top sights: Bratislava Castle, Old Town, St. Martin’s Cathedral.
Cost for Indians:

• Accommodation: ₹2,000–₹3,500 per night
• Meals: ₹500–₹800 per person/day
• Attractions: ₹300–₹1,000 per site
  Tips: Day trip from Vienna possible. Try vegetarian goulash and dumplings.

Why visit? Rich history, mountain views, and low costs.Top sights: Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, Vitosha Boulevard, Boyana Church.
Cost for Indians:

• Accommodation: ₹1,800–₹3,500 per night
• Meals: ₹400–₹800 per person/day
• Attractions: ₹300–₹1,000 per site
  Tips: Bulgaria has many vegetarian-friendly cafés. Try banitsa (a vegetarian pastry).