32 Affordable Alternatives to Europe's Most Expensive Cities

19. Sibiu, Romania: Transylvanian Charm

Step into the medieval charm of Sibiu, a gem in the heart of Transylvania. With its well-preserved city walls, Germanic architecture, and cobblestone squares like the Grand Square (Piața Mare) and Lesser Square (Piața Mică), Sibiu feels like a storybook setting. The "city with eyes" – its iconic eyelid-shaped attic windows – watches over you as you explore. Enjoy hearty, affordable Romanian cuisine and discover a rich cultural scene with numerous festivals. Far less crowded than some European counterparts, Sibiu offers a tranquil yet engaging historical experience at a fraction of the cost.