Five European cities have been highlighted as budget-friendly options for autumn getaways by travel expert Laura Carden-Lovell. She notes that the autumn 'shoulder season' can offer significant savings on flights and hotels as visitor numbers typically decrease.
The recommended destinations include Tirana in Albania, Sarajevo in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Sofia in Bulgaria, Tallinn in Estonia, and Riga in Latvia. Carden-Lovell, head of operations at Transfer Travel, advises travellers to also consider in-city transportation costs, although car rental prices may also be lower during this period.
Tirana is described as bright, colourful, and rich in history, with Skanderbeg Square and the Blloku neighbourhood recommended for exploration. Sarajevo offers traditional market stalls and historic mosques in its Old Town, while Sofia features cathedrals, Roman ruins, and an affordable public transport network.
Tallinn's UNESCO-listed Old Town and the modern Telliskivi Creative City are highlighted, along with the cultural experience of public saunas. Riga provides a medieval town to explore on foot, cheap transportation, and a growing food scene, with St. Peter's Church offering city views for €9 to access the observation tower.