2026 European Travel Cost Index Released
As the European peak tourist season approaches, planning a cost-effective trip is a top priority for many travelers. To that end, Euronews conducted a comprehensive price comparison across seven popular tourist countries: France, Spain, Italy, Turkey, Greece, Croatia, and Portugal. The study covered various aspects such as accommodation, dining, food, transportation, and tobacco, culminating in the “2026 Popular European Tourist Destination Price Ranking,” which serves as a vital reference for prospective visitors.
Top Three: Turkey, Croatia, and Portugal
The results show that Turkey, with a cost index of 59.6, tops the list as the cheapest travel destination among the seven, with its low prices giving it a significant advantage.
Following closely is Croatia with a score of 78.4, ranking second. The country shows balanced performance across various spending categories, with particularly competitive tobacco prices.
Portugal ranks third with a score of 86.6. Its overall cost of living is moderate, and its relatively affordable prices for restaurants and hotel accommodations make it an attractive option.
Spain Ranks Fifth: Supermarket Food Prices a Highlight
In this ranking, Spain places fifth with a score of 91.7. Although it didn’t make the top three, Spain excels in specific areas. The report highlights that Spain’s supermarket food prices are very competitive, ranking as the second cheapest among the seven countries, just after Turkey. This is great news for tourists looking to control their budget by cooking their own meals.
Ranking fourth is Greece, with a score of 87.4. Its overall cost level is close to that of Portugal and Spain, but prices for some beverage and tobacco products are slightly higher than in other countries.
Italy and France: Higher Costs in Traditional Western European Destinations
Italy ranks sixth with a score of 97.1. According to the report’s analysis, its higher ranking is mainly due to the prices of restaurants and hotel accommodations, which are the primary factors driving up travel costs.
The most expensive country on the list is France, with a high score of 110.3. In most compared categories, France’s prices are on the higher end. However, the report also notes that France has a relative advantage in the prices of beverages, as well as fish and seafood. Overall, the total cost of traveling in France is significantly higher than in the other countries on the list.
Consumer Guide: Popular Doesn’t Mean Expensive
This 2026 cost ranking clearly shows that there is no necessary link between “popular” and “expensive.” For tourists planning a budget-friendly trip in Europe, Turkey is the undisputed best choice on this list. And while Spain ranks fifth overall, its highly advantageous food prices and relatively moderate overall costs still make it one of Europe’s most cost-effective popular travel destinations.
